NASA astronauts rehearsing moonwalks in Arizona desert: Here's why
What's the story
NASA is currently engaged in a week-long expedition in the Arizona desert, simulating moonwalk scenarios.
This exercise, part of the future Artemis Program's training regimen, is being performed by astronauts Kate Rubins and Andre Douglas.
The San Francisco Volcanic Field near Flagstaff, AZ, which closely mirrors the lunar surface, serves as their training ground.
The astronauts are rehearsing lunar operations from start to finish while donning replica spacesuits.
Teamwork
Engineers and experts support astronauts' training
The training exercise is backed by a team of NASA engineers and field experts, both on-site in Arizona and virtually from NASA's Johnson Space Center in Houston.
"Field tests play a critical role in helping us test all of the systems, hardware, and technology we'll need to conduct successful lunar operations during Artemis missions," said Barbara Janoiko, director for the field test at Johnson.
This collaboration ensures that every aspect of lunar operations is thoroughly rehearsed before actual deployment.
Tech runs
Advanced technology for simulated moonwalks
Throughout the week, the astronauts will conduct four simulated moonwalk, as well as six advanced technology runs.
These exercises will follow the same protocol for operations on Artemis 3 and beyond.
The tech used could be included in future Artemis program missions, featuring a display and navigation data stream via either augmented reality (AR) or lighting beacons to aid crew navigation back to the lander.
Problem-solving
Identifying challenges and gaps in lunar operations
The training aims to identify any potential gaps or obstacles that could arise with operations to the lunar south pole.
This includes how data is collected and how communication is maintained with the science and flight control teams back in Houston.
"During Artemis 3, the astronauts will be our science operators on the lunar surface with an entire science team supporting them from here on Earth," stated Cherie Achilles, science officer for the test at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center.
Scenario
Reviewing scenarios to enhance future mission planning
After completing each simulated moonwalk, all teams will convene to review the exercise and discuss lessons learned. Insights gained from these field tests will inform planning for future Artemis missions.
This marks the fifth field test conducted by NASA Johnson's Joint Extravehicular Activity and Human Surface Mobility Test Team.
The Arizona desert, with its volcanic features, craters, and faults, has been a training ground since the Apollo program due to its resemblance to lunar terrain.