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SLS Rocket Rips Hole in Earth's Atmosphere
6 Nov
Summary
- NASA's most powerful rocket, the SLS, launched astronauts around the moon.
- New research suggests the launch created a massive hole in Earth's atmosphere.
- The ionosphere disruption may have impacted GPS signal accuracy.
NASA's Space Launch System (SLS) rocket, measuring 322 feet and renowned as the agency's most powerful to date, successfully launched four astronauts on the Artemis II mission in April. This historic flight took the crew on a journey around the moon, marking the first crewed lunar mission in over 50 years. The launch, originating from Kennedy Space Center, generated an immense 8.8 million pounds of thrust.
Recent research suggests the sheer power of the SLS launch may have caused significant disturbances in Earth's ionosphere. Scientists analyzing GPS data reported that the rocket's ascent and subsequent orbital maneuvers created massive holes, approximately 3,100 miles wide, across the American continent. These disruptions, while not entirely uncommon during spaceflights, were notable for their scale and potential impact on GPS signals.
The next phase of NASA's lunar ambitions, the Artemis III mission, is slated for late 2027. This upcoming mission will focus on testing commercial lunar landers in Earth orbit, with astronauts set to dock with landers from Blue Origin and SpaceX. The Artemis program aims to establish a sustained human presence on the moon.
