DeepSummary
The transcript details a podcast episode where NASA astronauts are training for the upcoming Artemis III mission, which aims to land humans on the Moon's surface in 2026 for the first time since the Apollo missions in the 1960s and 70s. The training involves simulating moonwalks and geologic activities in an Arizona volcanic field to prepare the astronauts for exploring the lunar south pole region.
During the training exercise, two astronauts in mock spacesuits ventured out into the volcanic landscape while a science team in Houston communicated with them in real-time, guiding their activities and requesting certain rock samples be collected. The exercise aimed to recreate the challenging lighting conditions and terrain of the lunar south pole.
The podcast highlights the extensive preparation and coordination required for the Artemis III landing, noting the scientific goals of studying the lunar geology and bringing back rock samples. It also touches on the hurdles NASA faces compared to the well-funded Apollo program, such as tighter budgets and a slower mission cadence, as well as the ambitions of other space agencies like China.
Key Episodes Takeaways
- NASA is conducting extensive training and simulations to prepare astronauts for the Artemis III crewed lunar landing mission planned for 2026.
- The training emphasizes scientific exploration, with astronauts learning geology skills and coordinating with earth-based science teams in real-time.
- Recreating lighting, terrain and operational conditions at the lunar south pole is a key focus of the simulations.
- Gathering and properly documenting lunar rock samples is a crucial objective of Artemis III from a scientific perspective.
- NASA is drawing heavily on lessons learned from the successful Apollo program to inform its Artemis training approach.
- Compared to Apollo, the Artemis program faces tighter budgets and a slower mission cadence that present challenges.
- International partnerships and coordination with space agencies like ESA are part of NASA's Artemis preparation.
- The simulations allow NASA to develop tools, procedures and experience that will aid the actual Artemis III mission execution.
Top Episodes Quotes
- “Given that no human has set foot on the lunar surface since the last Apollo crew blasted off in 1972, there's a lot we need to relearn or figure out.“ by Juliana Gross
- “We look at Apollo as the way to do it because it was very successful.“ by Dean Eppler
- “We can't just say we want that rock, We have to elucidate why we want that specific rock and why it ties back to our priorities.“ by Jose Hurtado
- “I forgot to tell you something super important, I found a really cool rock, and I didnt tell you about it.“ by Kate Rubins
- “Thank you for allowing us to advocate for science. I think it was powerful to see that happen.“ by Cherie Achilles
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Episode Information
Nature Podcast
podcast@nature.com
6/28/24
In 2026, NASA aims to send humans back to the Moon's surface, as part of the Artemis III mission. In preparation, astronauts have been performing moonwalking simulations to ensure that they are able to make the most of their precious time on the lunar surface. In one dress rehearsal, a pair of astronauts took part in a training exercise in an Arizona volcanic field, working with a science team to practice doing geology work in difficult conditions designed to mimic some that will be experienced at the lunar south pole.
This is an audio version of our Feature: How NASA astronauts are training to walk on the Moon in 2026
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