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Artemis 2 Crew Returns: Lunar Views & Toilet Troubles
8 Apr
Summary
- Orion spacecraft is returning to Earth for a splashdown on April 10.
- Crew captured over 175 GB of images and science data during lunar flyby.
- A wastewater vent line issue was encountered but not considered critical.
The Artemis 2 mission is nearing its conclusion as the Orion spacecraft heads back to Earth for a planned splashdown off the coast of San Diego, California, on April 10.
The crew, comprising Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover, Christina Koch, and Jeremy Hansen, recently completed a historic lunar flyby, becoming the first humans to orbit the moon in over half a century. They engaged in activities such as a call with the International Space Station and a debriefing with scientists.
During their journey, the astronauts amassed a significant scientific payload, capturing more than 175 gigabytes of images and observations. This data, returned partly via an experimental laser communications system, includes breathtaking visuals of Earth and the moon, alongside hours of detailed crew observations.
While the spacecraft's systems are largely functioning well, a minor issue with a wastewater vent line was reported. Engineers are investigating the cause, with current theories pointing to a clog related to the wastewater's chemical treatment. Despite this, mission control remains focused on ensuring the crew's safe return.
