Usage Conditions May Apply Usage Conditions Apply There are restrictions for re-using this media. For more information, visit the Smithsonian's Terms of Use page. IIIF provides researchers rich metadata and image viewing options for comparison of works across cultural heritage collections. More - https://iiif.si.edu View Manifest View in Mirador Viewer Usage Conditions May Apply Usage Conditions Apply There are restrictions for re-using this media. For more information, visit the Smithsonian's Terms of Use page. IIIF provides researchers rich metadata and image viewing options for comparison of works across cultural heritage collections. More - https://iiif.si.edu View Manifest View in Mirador Viewer

The Space Shuttle and International Space Station are equipped with a toilet for the crews to use, but sometimes it is not possible to go there. During launch and return from flight, the astronauts must stay strapped into their seats while wearing airtight pressure suits. During extravehicular activity (spacewalks) they must work outside in the sealed spacesuit for up to eight hours. Few people can "hold it" that long, so astronauts may choose from a variety of disposable absorbent pads and pants for relief during these periods of confinement. During the rest of the mission when the toilet is accessible, they wear the same type of underwear they normally wear on Earth.

NASA gave the Museum a representative sample of the options available as practical solutions to an uncomfortable problem. This style, often called a MAG (Maximum Absorbent Garment), is adjustable to fit.

Display Status

This object is not on display at the National Air and Space Museum. It is either on loan or in storage.

Object Details
Country of Origin United States of America Type PERSONAL EQUIPMENT-Undergarments Dimensions Width (widest): 1 ft 1 in. (33.02cm)
Width (narrow): 4 in. (10.16cm)
Length:1 ft 6 in. (45.72cm
Materials cotton, synthetic fabric, plastic, adhesive
Inventory Number A20100119000 Credit Line Transfer from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Data Source National Air and Space Museum Restrictions & Rights Usage conditions apply
For more information, visit the Smithsonians Terms of Use.