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Artemis II: Moon Mission's Wildest Risks
31 Jan
Summary
- Artemis II crew faces launch pad fire risks.
- Systems failure could leave Orion stranded.
- Heatshield issues pose re-entry dangers.
The Artemis II mission to the moon, set for launch between February and April 2026, involves significant risks for its four-person crew: Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover, Christina Koch, and Jeremy Hansen. NASA has identified potential dangers including fires on the launch pad and critical systems failure during the lunar flight.
Advanced safety measures like the Launch Abort System are designed to protect the crew. However, unprecedented challenges arise from testing new technology like the Orion spacecraft, which has flown only once previously. A 'free return trajectory' is planned to mitigate propulsion system failures.
Medical emergencies pose another critical threat due to the extreme remoteness of space. Furthermore, concerns exist regarding the Orion spacecraft's heatshield performance, which showed unexpected damage during the Artemis I mission. NASA has adjusted the re-entry trajectory to minimize risks associated with extreme heat.
