Summary
Highlights
Christina discusses the disposal of loose trash in locker D bag one and the storage of 'uphill garments' (comfort garments) in flight day one clothing bags. She notes that medical waste (mag trash) is double Ziploc bagged but not in an Orion trash bag, as the items wouldn't fit, and expresses a preference for maintaining the current bagging method.
Christina asks for clarification on retaining packing materials like clamshells, bubble wrap, and padded Ziplocs for re-stowage, distinguishing them from regular Ziplocs that are not necessarily kept. This highlights the careful management of all items within the spacecraft.
Lakisha Hawkins, Deputy Director for NASA's Artemis program, provides an update on the mission's third day. The crew is in good spirits and more than 100,000 miles from Earth. She shares new images from the crew, including a unique view of Earth with auroras, emphasizing the symbolic 'moonshot' nature of the mission.
Judd Frieling, Artemis II Flight Director, details the crew's activities, including media conferences, window inspections, and family calls. He mentions 'non-propulsive events,' such as CO2 scrubber vents, that cause minor trajectory deviations. Howard Hughes, Orion Program Manager, reports that subsystems are performing nominally, noting that propellant usage was within 5% of predictions. A minor issue with SM prop pressurization required isolating one branch, but redundant systems ensure no mission impacts.
Mark Strassmann from CBS asks about the significance of Monday's lunar flyby. It's highlighted as a crucial step in the campaign to return and stay on the moon, allowing humans to directly observe the lunar surface. The mission serves as a test flight for a reliable transportation system, with crewed capability providing essential insights into system operation in a human-occupied environment.
Mark Hartman (NSF) inquires about factors affecting trajectory and the absence of a planned correction burn. Judd explains that major dispersions come from CO2 scrubbers and urine vents, but the navigation and propulsion systems are performing so well that the burn wasn't needed. Eric Berger (Ars Technica) asks about cabin comfort regarding humidity and temperature. The cabin temperature was adjusted from 65 to 70-75 degrees Fahrenheit for crew comfort, and humidity levels are maintained for effective CO2 scrubbing.
Mark with Aviation Week asks about the external survey of Orion's crew and service modules. Howard states no initial concerns were found and a detailed report will follow. Jackie Waddell (CNN) inquires about a reported water leak. Judd clarifies it was minor dribbling during water bag filling and potable water dispenser operation, not uncommon during such activities.
Judd outlines tomorrow's objectives including manual piloting tests and a 'selfie moment' with the Orion vehicle. Joseph Howlett asks about the crew's spirits and family contact. They are in great spirits, busy, but now have time for family calls, marking a shift in their demanding schedule.
Micah Maidenberg (Wall Street Journal) asks about the six-hour lunar science observation period. Judd confirms it begins around 18:30 UTC on the sixth (13:30 Central Time), covering the closest approach and involving visual observations and photography. Marcia Dunn (Associated Press) asks about a G2 geomagnetic storm watch and its impact on the crew. Radiation specialists are monitoring, but no precautionary measures are expected as it's not a major concern. The furthest distance from Earth is updated to 252,757 statute miles.
Lauren Grush (Bloomberg) follows up on the helium issue, ensuring redundancy. Howard confirms the second branch is performing well. Regarding sensor issues and 'false alarms,' Judd and Howard explain it's part of learning how the system behaves with a human crew. Bill Harwood (CBS News) questions the unique contributions of human eyes on this mission compared to past missions or satellites. Judd emphasizes the human eye's superior ability to resolve details for scientific observation, even at 4000 miles. Howard stresses the importance of gaining experience in transporting people safely to the moon for future exploration goals.
Kaya Burgess (Times of London) asks about plans to overcome communication blackouts behind the moon. Lakisha confirms future missions will incorporate communication and relay capabilities as part of a stepped approach. Rod Powell (Ad Astra magazine) asks about the duration and significance of the upcoming blackout. Judd estimates approximately 40 minutes, with physics ensuring their return.