When NASA sends the first astronauts to explore near the lunar South Pole, moonwalkers will wear stylish spacesuits provided by Axiom Space.

NASA selected the company to develop the modern suits for the Artemis III mission. The first prototype was revealed during an event at Space Center Houston in Texas on Wednesday.

"NASA's partnership with Axiom is critical to landing astronauts on the Moon and continuing American leadership in space. Building on NASA's years of research and expertise, Axiom's next-generation spacesuits will not only enable the first woman to walk on the Moon, but they will also open opportunities for more people to explore and conduct science on the Moon than ever before," said NASA Administrator Bill Nelson. "Our partnership is investing in America, supporting America's workers, and demonstrating another example of America's technical ingenuity that will position NASA and the commercial space sector to compete - and win - in the 21st century."

Artemis III will land astronauts, including the first woman, on the Moon to advance long-term lunar exploration and scientific discovery.

The spacesuit the astronauts will wear builds on NASA's prototype developments and incorporates the latest technology, enhanced mobility, and added protection from hazards on the Moon.

The company will test the suit in a spacelike environment prior to the mission. NASA maintains the authority for astronaut training, mission planning, and approval of the service systems.

Through Artemis, NASA will land the first woman and the first person of colour on the Moon, paving the way for a long-term, sustainable lunar presence to explore more of the lunar surface than ever before and prepare for future astronaut missions to Mars.