Crew members of Artemis II, the United States' crewed lunar exploration mission, moved to verify the performance of their spacesuits ahead of entering the moon's sphere of gravitational influence.
The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) said on the 5th (local time) that on flight day 5, Artemis II crew members carried out a test mission of the Orion Crew Survival System (OCSS). The OCSS is an orange spacesuit worn inside the Orion spacecraft that protects crew safety during launch, Earth atmosphere reentry, high-risk phases near the moon, and emergencies.
The new spacesuit delivers far better performance than equipment used in the space shuttle era. The helmet is lighter and more robust, and noise reduction and communications have been enhanced. Durability, fire resistance, breathability, and thermal regulation have also been improved, and the gloves are designed to operate touchscreens.
In particular, unlike the previous standardized S, M, and L sizes, it is custom-made to fit each crew member. The zipper system was also refined for quicker, easier donning. In an emergency where cabin pressure drops, it can supply breathable air for up to six days, and it also has functions to support egress and survival after splashdown when the capsule lands in the ocean.
The suit's vivid orange color is intended to make crew members easier to identify during recovery after splashdown. The crew on this day focused on evaluating comfort and mobility when wearing the suit for extended periods in microgravity, as well as thermal management performance and communications support. They also tested whether they could sit in their seats, move inside the spacecraft, and consume food and beverages while suited.
Artemis II also conducted a trajectory correction burn toward the moon that day. After receiving the final lunar science objectives from the ground control center, the crew began preparations to enter the moon's sphere of gravitational influence. NASA expects entry into the moon's gravitational influence to occur around 12:40 a.m. on the 6th Eastern time.