NASA engineers are getting ready to embark on a crucial series of ground tests at the Kennedy Space Center in Florida in preparation for the highly anticipated Artemis II moon mission.
These comprehensive tests, known as integrated system verification and validation tests, will assess the readiness of the mobile launcher, Launch Pad 39B, and even the four astronauts slated for the mission, ensuring that all ground equipment is primed to support the launch.
CAPE CANAVERAL, FL - AUGUST 17: In this handout image provided by NASA, NASA's Space Launch System (SLS) rocket with the Orion spacecraft aboard is seen atop the mobile launcher at Launch Pad 39B at the Kennedy Space Center on August 17, 2022 in Cape Canaveral, Florida.
NASA Prepares for Artemis II Moon Mission
Shawn Quinn, the Exploration Ground Systems Program manager at Kennedy, emphasized the importance of understanding how individual systems function in concert, saying, "These tests enable the team to demonstrate new integrated processing and launch capabilities, as well as define operational procedures and schedules to ensure the team is ready for launch day."
Most of these assessments will occur while the mobile launcher is at Launch Pad 39B, which arrived at the launch site in August. After completing all tests, the mobile launcher will be moved to the Vehicle Assembly Building to begin integration with the Artemis II moon rocket.
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Operational Procedures of NASA to Ensure the Team Is Ready for Launch Day
Test 1: Launch Day Demonstration
Scheduled for September, this test will simulate the activities needed to prepare the crew for launch day. The astronauts will don their Orion crew survival system spacesuits at Kennedy's Neil Armstrong Operations and Checkout Building.
They will then travel to the launch pad in a fleet of electric vehicles. They will board the mobile launcher via the crew access arm upon arrival, even though the SLS rocket and Orion spacecraft will not be present. This exercise serves to familiarize the team with the operations leading up to their journey to the Moon.
Test 2: Imagery Test
This assessment will verify the functionality of all high-speed imagery cameras at Launch Pad 39B. These cameras are vital in monitoring critical components and systems during the countdown and liftoff. The captured imagery also aids in post-launch analysis.
Test 3: Water Flow Tests
This test addresses the intense conditions during liftoff when the rocket engines ignite. Around 400,000 gallons of water will be released onto the mobile launcher's deck and the pad's flame deflector to safeguard the crew, SLS, Orion, and surrounding structures. This deluge of water helps counteract over-pressurization and suppresses the noise generated at liftoff.
Test 4: New Liquid Hydrogen Tank Flow Test
NASA has constructed an additional liquid hydrogen tank at the launch pad to minimize the time between launch attempts. This test will ensure the tank operates effectively, allowing the super-cool liquid gas to flow safely to the mobile launcher and SLS during the countdown.
Test 5: Emergency Egress Demonstration
This test simulates an emergency situation during the launch countdown, necessitating the evacuation of the astronauts from Orion. To reach safety, they will utilize emergency egress baskets suspended from a catenary system on the mobile launcher.
Test 6: Environmental Control System and Air and Gaseous Nitrogen Test
Engineers will evaluate an environmental control system to validate upgrades and demonstrate launch timeline procedures. This system regulates air supply, thermal control, and pressurization for SLS and Orion during cryogenic loading.
Test 7: Firing Room Testing
All components in the Launch Control Center firing room will be thoroughly tested, including software, communication audio loops, and imagery. Specific focus will be given to the audio loop used for communication with astronauts inside Orion during the launch countdown.
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