The MoonWalk London is going virtual this Saturday (15th May), with the theme “Out of this World”. In a space mission like no other, a special “Space Bra” has been created to mark the occasion.
The bra has been created by Boadicea Design in collaboration with UK Space Agency, the Association for Science and Discovery Centres and signed by astronaut Tim Peake. It is based on the Sokul Suit which is worn by astronauts going up to the International Space Station.
Tim Peake said: “There may be more in common between Walk the Walk and space than you might think.
“On the International Space Station, we have been researching cancer therapies such as microencapsulation – enabling targeted delivery for effective treatment and fewer side effects.
“Walk the Walk is a fantastic charity and I’m delighted to support them in their valuable work.”
Another fascinating coincidence is that the first spacesuits were too rigid and bulky and NASA started a search to find a solution. This was found at Playtex – producers of bras and girdles – a previous sponsor of The MoonWalk! And so Playtex seamstresses were part of the manufacture of the softer, more flexible Apollo spacesuits which followed.
Decorated bras are the unique and fun trade-mark of MoonWalk organisers, grant making breast cancer charity Walk the Walk and have been instrumental in the charity raising over £133 million for research and vital breast cancer causes.
At The MoonWalks women and men proudly wear decorated bras as they take on their Midnight challenges. For the Virtual MoonWalk, walkers are carrying on the tradition by decorating their bras and many will be wearing them attached to their bumbags.
The bras worn at the very start of the Walk the Walk journey were auctioned and raised a lot of money. But since then Walk the Walk has been working on a collection which can be featured in exhibitions to raise even more awareness that breast cancer is not selective and can affect anybody.
Alison ‘Bod’ Stephenson at Boadicea Design said: “As a designer and maker I have produced a number of Sokul Suit ‘replica’ costumes in partnership with UK Space Agency and Association for Science and Discovery Centres.
“These were first used to promote exhibitions in science centres across the UK when astronaut Tim Peake travelled to the International Space Station in December 2015. Taking colours and details from the Sokul Suit design, I have created the Space Bra Outfit, which has been a fun project with a serious message. I’m delighted to support Walk the Walk and help raise awareness of breast cancer.”
Dr Alice Bunn, International Director at the UK Space Agency, said: “Collaboration is the cornerstone of space exploration and it is only by working together that we will be able to beat breast cancer.
“We’re delighted with the outfit inspired by Tim Peake’s spacesuit. Having completed The MoonWalk before, I know what an inspirational event it is and I hope as many people as possible will take part, raising vital funds and enjoying a wonderful experience.”
Shaaron Leverment, CEO (Acting) of the ASDC said: “At the UK Association for Science and Discovery Centres we have a vision to support people of all ages, genders, background and experiences to be involved in the sciences.
“This one-of-a-kind Space bra is truly ‘Out of this World’ and does just that! An eye-catching design that will no doubt capture the attention and imagination of all who see it, raising awareness that breast cancer affects everybody and inspiring more people to get involved in Walk the Walk.
“We are very proud to be part of this wonderful, creative collaboration and the important message behind it.”