NASA astronauts began a week-long field test in the lunar-like landscape of San Francisco Volcanic Field near Flagstaff, Arizona to practice moonwalks during the Artemis campaign.
Wearing mock spacesuits, NASA astronauts Kate Rubins and Andre Douglas conducted a variety of technology demonstrations, hardware checkouts and Artemis science-related operations in the desert.
Throughout the week-long tests, two integrated teams – comprising astronauts, engineers, field experts, flight controllers and scientists – will practice end-to-end lunar operations. “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 NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston.
During four simulated moonwalks and six advanced technology runs, NASA will evaluate gaps and challenges associated with lunar South Pole operations, including data collection and communications between the flight control team and science team in Houston for rapid decision-making protocols.
Teams will demonstrate technology that may be used for future Artemis missions, such as display and navigation data stream capabilities in the form of a heads-up display using augmented reality or lighting beacons that could help guide crew back to the lander.