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Artemis II Astronauts Face Universal Outlook Glitch
5 Apr
Summary
- An astronaut reported Microsoft Outlook non-functional seven hours into flight.
- The Artemis II mission, costing $4.1 billion, also faced toilet system issues.
- NASA resolved the Outlook problem by remotely reloading astronaut's files.
The Artemis II mission, estimated to cost $4.1 billion, experienced technical challenges during its flight. Approximately seven hours after launch, Commander Reid Wiseman reported that his Microsoft Outlook email system was not functioning on his personal Microsoft Surface Pro tablet. Mission Control in Houston confirmed they would remotely access his device to resolve the issue.
This email malfunction was resolved by reloading Wiseman's Outlook files, a process described as not uncommon for space missions by flight director Judd Frieling. The mission also faced disruptions with the Orion capsule's bathroom, specifically its waste management system. Sensors showed unexpected readings shortly after takeoff, and an astronaut reported the toilet shutting down.
Engineers suspect ice may be blocking the waste line, impacting urine flushing. Despite these issues, the toilet remained usable for bowel functions. Astronauts also noted a smell emanating from the bathroom. NASA officials stated that space toilets are a persistent challenge but assured the crew was trained to manage such situations.
