Produced by: Tarun Mishra Designed by: Manoj Kumar
NASA astronauts Kate Rubins and Andre Douglas recently conducted a series of simulated moonwalks in the San Francisco Volcanic Field in Northern Arizona, as part of preparation for the Artemis missions.
Photos : NASA
The exercise, known as Joint Extravehicular Activity and Human Surface Mobility Test Team Field Test 5 (JETT5), took place on May 16 and included four simulated moonwalks mirroring the operations planned for Artemis III.
JETT5 involved two integrated teams. A field team of astronauts, engineers, and field experts conducted the simulated moonwalks in Arizona, while a team of flight controllers and scientists at NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston monitored and guided the activities.
Barbara Janoiko, director of the field test at Johnson, highlighted the importance of these tests, emphasizing that they are crucial for testing systems, hardware, and technology needed for successful lunar operations during Artemis missions.
The simulated moonwalks were conducted at night to add realism and complexity to the exercise. This practice helped in identifying potential challenges and refining operational procedures.
After each simulated moonwalk, the science team, flight control team, crewmembers, and field experts convened to discuss and document lessons learned, which will be critical for future missions.
A primary objective of JETT5 was to identify potential challenges and gaps in lunar South Pole operations, an area that remains largely unexplored.
Cherie Achilles, the science officer for the test at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center, noted that Artemis III astronauts will serve as science operators on the lunar surface, with support from a science team on Earth. The simulation provided a chance to practice conducting geology remotely.
The Arizona desert, with its craters, faults, and volcanic features, has long been an ideal training ground for lunar exploration, helping astronauts prepare for the unique challenges of the Moon’s South Pole.