How fast did the Artemis II capsule re-enter Earth's atmosphere?

The Artemis II capsule re-entered Earth's atmosphere at speeds of nearly 30,000 miles per hour, approximately Mach 38.89.

What adjustments were made for the Artemis II re-entry compared to Artemis I?

NASA adjusted the angle and trajectory of the Artemis II crew's re-entry into Earth's atmosphere to reduce heat exposure, rather than upgrading the heat shield.

Home / Science / Artemis II Astronauts Report Heat Shield Charring

Artemis II Astronauts Report Heat Shield Charring

Q: What did the Artemis II astronauts observe about the Orion capsule's heat shield?

Mission Commander Reid Wiseman observed some charring on the Orion capsule's heat shield, particularly on the shoulder area, though he noted no significant pieces were missing.

17 Apr

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Summary

Artemis II astronauts described a smooth re-entry with some heat shield charring.
The Orion capsule experienced temperatures up to 5,000 degrees Fahrenheit.
NASA adjusted the re-entry angle, not the heat shield, for this mission.

Artemis II Astronauts Report Heat Shield Charring

Astronauts from NASA's Artemis II mission have returned safely to Earth, describing a smooth re-entry after their journey around the moon. Commander Reid Wiseman reported observing some charring on the Orion capsule's heat shield, particularly on the 'shoulder' area, though he stated that no significant pieces were missing. Mission pilot Victor Glover described the re-entry as an intense 13-minute and 36-second descent, with the capsule reaching speeds of nearly 30,000 miles per hour, or Mach 38.89.