NASA - National Aeronautics and Space Administration

The information in this document was accurate as of the original publication date.

Audience: Educators
Grades: 5-12


The different materials used in constructing the space shuttle spacesuit were chosen because they each featured properties deemed desirable for spacewalking. Depending upon their intended purpose, materials may have to withstand tears, punctures, temperature extremes, bending, abrasion or any combination of the above. The test stand in this activity measures materials for their resistance to tensile, or stretching, forces. This section includes a list of materials and a diagram to build the test stand.

Tensile Strength Test Stand Activity [202KB PDF file]

This document is part of the Suited for Spacewalking Educator Guide.