The NASA Orion space capsule training simulator is now located in Building 9 at the Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas. This full-scale model is where Artemis 2 astronauts have spent over a year preparing for their mission around the moon.
Previously, the Orion simulator stood solo near the International Space Station training modules. Now, it has a new neighbor: a mockup of Blue Origin’s Blue Moon Mark 2 lunar lander. Astronauts will use this training cabin as they prepare for upcoming Artemis missions, adding a new level to their training regime.
The Blue Moon lander, designed to eventually shuttle astronauts to the lunar surface, stands next to the Orion capsule. This training facility allows astronauts to transition smoothly from Orion simulations to Blue Moon exercises. The success of Artemis 3 relies on one lunar lander being ready for flight.
Blue Moon and SpaceX’s Starship are key players in NASA’s Artemis program, which aims to establish a long-term human presence on the moon. Recent estimates suggest that Artemis 3 is scheduled for late 2027. NASA’s Administrator Jared Isaacman emphasizes the importance of both landers being prepared in time for the mission.
Training progresses despite delays. Blue Moon has recently integrated a cabin model, while astronauts tested early designs of Starship at SpaceX facilities. Meanwhile, Blue Moon’s crew cabin will be approximately 52 feet tall, designed to facilitate astronaut training before the mission.
The advancements in lunar lander designs have changed the approach to landing on the moon. Unlike the Apollo missions that left part of the spacecraft on the surface, the Artemis program adopts a single-stage landing approach. This means both Starship and Blue Moon will have to conduct multiple refueling missions in space to make consistent lunar landings possible.
Data from NASA shows that both landers will need to demonstrate successful uncrewed missions to qualify for carrying astronauts. The Blue Moon training mockup will aid in perfecting its design before the MK2’s final iteration is released.
In summary, NASA’s Artemis program is making significant strides with continuous training for astronauts and developing systems for sustainable moon landings. The collaboration between Blue Origin and NASA marks an exciting phase in the modern space race. For a deeper dive into the Artemis program, check out NASA’s updates here.
