Artemis astronauts pass half-way point on way to Moon
GS3Economy · S&T · Environment · Security· Space technology (ISRO, missions)· Prelims·
Why in news
NASA's Artemis astronauts reached the halfway point of their lunar journey, surpassing 219,000 kilometers from Earth.
Background
The Orion spacecraft is carrying astronauts Christina Koch, Victor Glover, Reid Wiseman, and Jeremy Hansen. The mission utilizes a 'free-return' trajectory, which uses the Moon's gravity to slingshot the spacecraft back to Earth.
Facts for Prelims
- S&TOrion: The spacecraft used by NASA for the Artemis lunar missions.
- FactThe astronauts surpassed 219,000 kilometers from Earth during the mission.
- S&TFree-return trajectory: A flight path that uses the Moon's gravity to return the spacecraft to Earth.
For Mains
Q. Discuss the significance of international space exploration and the technological challenges involved in establishing a sustainable human presence on the Moon.
Dimensions to cover in your answer
- Orbital mechanics: Utilizing lunar gravity for 'free-return' trajectories to ensure safe return
- Technological hurdles: Sustaining life support and communication over long-distance lunar trajectories
Keywords: Space exploration · Orbital mechanics · Lunar mission · Aerospace engineering
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