BBC tours Orion spacecraft model ahead of Artemis II return

Artemis II Crew Returns to Earth on 10 April via Orion Spacecraft

As the Artemis II mission nears its conclusion, NASA astronauts are set to descend back to Earth on 10 April, embarking on a 10-day journey aboard the Orion capsule. In Houston, Texas, the BBC recently had the opportunity to explore a detailed model of the spacecraft at the Johnson Space Centre, offering insights into its design and functionality.

Re-entry Challenges and Thermal Protection

During the spacecraft’s re-entry, the lower shield faces extreme conditions, enduring temperatures surpassing 5,000°F (2,760°C) as it descends at over 25,000 mph. This heat, roughly half that of the Sun, tests the durability of the thermal protection system. The crew members, who have spent weeks in orbit, shared reflections via video call, expressing their experiences and sending messages to loved ones.

Preparing for the Mission

From suit fittings to final systems checks, the crew meticulously prepared for the launch, which marked the first crewed Moon mission in 50 years. NASA conducted various simulations on the Orion spacecraft, including exercises for maneuvering the capsule. Meanwhile, in Florida, a commercial flight provided passengers with a rare glimpse of the historic launch, as the BBC’s Rebecca Morelle observed from just three miles away.

Broader Context and Public Reaction

Amid the mission’s progress, the US aims to establish itself as the first nation to land humans on the Moon by 2028. The BBC’s Ione Wells engaged with protesters and attendees outside the Supreme Court, where discussions on President Trump’s executive order took place. In Alabama, the BBC’s Gary O’Donoghue interviewed a farmer who remains steadfast in supporting the former president despite economic strain.

Additionally, a public art installation titled “A Throne Fit for a King” was unveiled at the National Mall, critiquing Trump’s White House renovations. The crew’s spacesuits, engineered for protection during launch, landing, and emergencies, were highlighted as a key innovation. Large demonstrations against the Trump administration, including the third No Kings rally, underscored ongoing public sentiment.

Meanwhile, the nation’s airports faced prolonged delays due to a partial TSA shutdown. At the CPAC conference in Texas, conservative attendees expressed mixed views on the current economic climate. The BBC’s Leyla Khodabakhshi also covered local reactions in Florida prior to the Artemis II launch. Notably, a Los Angeles jury recently ruled that Meta and Google intentionally created addictive social media platforms detrimental to young users’ mental health.

“The crew on board the Artemis II spoke by video link, sharing messages for their families and experiences of the trip so far.”

“The reactions come after a Los Angeles jury found that Meta and Google intentionally built addictive social media platforms that harm young people’s mental health.”