NASA's Orion spacecraft prepares for launch to gather crucial data before human missions to the Moon next year Produced by: Tarun Mishra Credit: NASA Orion Spacecraft Lifted On June 28, 2024, NASA technicians lifted the Orion spacecraft out of the Final Assembly and System Testing cell. This spacecraft is set to be used for the Artemis II mission, which will orbit the moon. Credit: NASA Final Testing and Assembly Orion has been undergoing final rounds of testing and assembly. This includes end-to-end performance verification of its subsystems and leak checks in its propulsion systems. Credit: NASA Use of 30-Ton Crane A 30-ton crane was employed to return Orion into a recently renovated altitude chamber where it underwent electromagnetic testing. Credit: NASA Altitude Chamber Tests The spacecraft will now undergo a series of tests in a near-vacuum environment. This involves removing air from the chamber to simulate the extremely low pressure and no atmosphere similar to space. Credit: NASA Simulating Space Environment These tests aim to recreate the harsh environment the spacecraft will experience during its future lunar missions. Credit: NASA Data Collection The data recorded during these tests will be crucial. It will help qualify the spacecraft to safely fly Artemis II astronauts through the harsh space environment. Credit: NASA Ensuring Safety and Performance The comprehensive testing ensures that the Orion spacecraft is fully prepared for the challenges of lunar missions, guaranteeing the safety and performance required for human spaceflight. Credit: NASA Related Stories