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Pg.34 of [b]The introduction to space for the 22th century[/b]
Chapter: [b]Avianauts[/b]

Aquatic avians are among the species sought after the most for space missions. They earned themselves their own category of space travlers, called Avianauts.

Their naturally low O2 consumption that enables them to operate with small airtanks has not only efficiency advantages but makes certain tasks in tight quarters possible in the first place.
Avianauts are trained to treat every extravehicular activity like a dive into the waters of their homeworld. Either consciously or via mechanical means, their breathing rate is reduced to once every five (5) to ten (10) minutes as long as fresh O2 can be supplied.
Breathing rate is known to increase significantly when an avianaut decides to push the limit of their mission time by cutting the oxygen supply entirely, relying only on Co2 scrubbers.

These adaptations to the circumstances of space missions is not without risk.
As a way to reduce risk to acceptable levels, an accurate monitoring of the avianauts body by other crew member is crucial. While various vial signs sensors have been used for this for a long time, the more recent introduction of full-transparent space suits has improved the observability.

Depending on the particular avians personal preference, together with transparent space suits, a partial undergarment may be worn. For the purpose of familiarity, that cloth is often reminescent of traditional swimwear used for water.
Those optional outfits are more of a status and fashion symbol than serve the purpose of covering intimate aspects of their bodies. Timid- or shyness is a rare trait in active avianauts primarily because of the natural effect of arousal provoked by the repeated acts of asphyxiation.
Nevertheless the official advice is to not stare or point out an Avianauts wet crotch or bulge. It may be understood as an attempt to flirt and is generally unprofessional. On long term missions, support to aleviate the arousal may be accepted upon asking.

As long as you respect that boundary, avians are known as excellent companions for missions and as well as passionate guides for civil travel who will not hesitate to give you their oxygen ration in case of an emergency.

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This commission is from last year, but think this current week is ideal for something space themed >w<

Drawn by the amazing @SeaTeal =3

A talented freediver penguin girl!
Her name comes from Pelagial (Greek pélagos = "open sea" aka ocean)  and Avis (Lat.: "bird") -> Bird of the Ocean~