The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) holds a prominent history in space exploration, particularly with its efforts in moon missions. One of their latest significant milestones is the successful launch of Artemis I on November 16, 2022. After considerable technological challenges and delays due to natural disasters over two months, NASA finally managed to lift off the Space Launch System (SLS) rocket from the Kennedy Space Centre, stationed in Cape Canaveral, Florida.
Understanding Artemis I Mission
Artemis I follows the historical footsteps of the famed Apollo lunar missions from half a century ago, taking its name from Apollo’s sister in Greek mythology. This mission is the first uncrewed venture in a series planned by NASA to establish long-term human presence on the Moon.
The mission introduces NASA’s Space Launch System (SLS), the largest new vertical launch system since the Saturn V rockets launched in the 1960s and 70s. It also includes testing of the Orion crew capsule. Despite Artemis I being an Orbiter mission, it has a unique return-to-Earth target.
The primary goals of Artemis I include demonstrating the Orion’s systems in a spaceflight environment and ensuring safe re-entry, descent, splashdown, and subsequent recovery before the crewed Artemis II flight.
Significance of the Artemis I Mission
Artemis I mission stands as a crucial stepping stone towards fulfilling the dream of transporting humans to other worlds and possibly even encountering extraterrestrial life. The spacecraft carrying CubeSats, specifically equipped instruments for conducting various experiments such as searching for water, hydrogen, and understanding the deep-space atmosphere’s impact on humans through dummy passengers onboard the Orion.
Future Endeavours: Upcoming Artemis Missions
NASA has already planned the follow-up Artemis missions. Artemis II, slated to launch in 2024, will conduct a crewed test mission to verify all spacecraft systems operate as intended. On the other hand, Artemis III, scheduled for 2025, is set to transport astronauts to the Moon, reminiscent of the Apollo missions.
India’s Contribution to Moon Exploration
Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has been actively participating in moon exploration through its Chandrayaan project. The first mission, Chandrayaan-1, launched successfully in October 2008, marking India’s maiden venture to the Moon. Unfortunately, communication with Chandrayaan-1 was lost in August 2009.
Chandrayaan-2, ISRO’s second mission to the Moon, is fully indigenous, including an Orbiter, Lander (Vikram), and Rover (Pragyan). The third lunar mission, Chandrayaan-3, consists of a lander and a rover, exemplifying the country’s progressing efforts in space exploration.
Previous Year Question on Spacecraft Purpose
A past UPSC civil services examination question focused on matching different spacecraft to their purpose. The query included Cassini-Huygens, sent to study Saturn and its moons; Messenger, designed to map and investigate Mercury; and Voyager 1 and 2, both aimed at exploring the outer solar system. Thus, it’s crucial to stay well-informed about these significant missions to excel in such competitive exams.
Indeed, the pursuit of space exploration continues to grow remarkably over the years, manifested by the ambitious projects of organizations like NASA and ISRO.