NASA is preparing for the Artemis Moon missions by conducting a week-long field test in the San Francisco Volcanic Field near Flagstaff, Arizona. This desert, resembling the lunar surface, is the perfect site for practicing moonwalk scenarios.
Astronauts Kate Rubins and Andre Douglas, wearing mockup spacesuits, are performing a series of technology demonstrations, hardware checkouts, and science operations. They are supported by two integrated teams: one in the field consisting of astronauts, engineers, and experts, and another at NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston, which monitors and guides their activities.
Barbara Janoiko, director for the field test at Johnson, emphasized the importance of these tests in ensuring successful lunar operations during the Artemis missions. The field test includes four simulated moonwalks and six advanced technology runs, showcasing potential future technologies like augmented reality displays and lighting beacons to guide astronauts back to the lander.
The science team at Johnson, which planned the field test, developed geologic maps, science questions, and prioritized moonwalk locations, mimicking the Artemis mission planning process. Cherie Achilles, science officer for the test, highlighted the simulation’s role in practicing remote geology in real-time.
The test aims to identify challenges in lunar South Pole operations, focusing on data collection and communication between teams in Houston for rapid decision-making. After each simulated moonwalk, teams will discuss lessons learned to refine future operations.
This is the fifth test by the Joint Extravehicular Activity and Human Surface Mobility Test Team at Johnson and the most detailed Artemis moonwalk simulation so far. The Arizona desert, similar to the lunar landscape, has been a training ground since the Apollo era.
Through Artemis, NASA plans to land the first woman, the first person of color, and its first international partner astronaut on the Moon, setting the stage for long-term lunar exploration and future Mars missions.
Credit: NASA/Josh Valcarcel