The team aboard NASA’s Orion spacecraft has released new stunning images from space as they observe their initial views of the opposite side of the Moon.
NASA astronauts Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover, and Christina Koch, along with Canada’s Jeremy Hansen, are embarking on a milestone journey of 252,757 miles from Earth – venturing further into space than any human has gone before – as part of the groundbreaking Artemis II mission.
Currently four days into their expedition, the crew has witnessed the far side of the Moon for the first time, with mission specialist Christina Koch expressing the sight as “truly breathtaking.”
Koch elaborated on the unique experience, noting the discrepancy in appearance compared to the familiar view of the Moon, stating, “The darker regions do not align as expected. Upon receiving our lunar targeting data, we confirmed that it is indeed the dark side.”
However, a mundane yet pressing issue has arisen onboard – the malfunction of the toilet system, prompting Mission Control to advise the astronauts to utilize additional backup urine collection bags until repairs are made.
Reports indicate that the toilet in the confined spacecraft has emitted unusual odors following an initial report of a ‘burning’ smell. Koch communicated the concern to Mission Control, highlighting the repeated occurrences of a burning heater smell emanating from the toilet.
The toilet glitch occurred post-Wednesday’s liftoff and has persisted intermittently since then, possibly due to vent line freezing, as stated by NASA. A variation of the Artemis II toilet underwent testing at the International Space Station in prior years.
The spacecraft is now being repositioned to expose the wastewater vent line to sunlight, with hopes of thawing the line and restoring bathroom functionality for the astronauts.
NASA astronaut and Artemis II Commander Reid Wiseman gazes out of one of the Orion spacecraft’s primary cabin windows.
Victor Glover, Reid Wiseman, Jeremy Hansen, and Christina Koch engaged in a ‘VIP call’ with Canadian children from within the Orion spacecraft.
As the Orion spacecraft ventured deeper into space, Earth appeared as a mere sliver in view.
The Artemis II crew showcased some of the onboard meal treats they have been enjoying.
The most recent lunar mission dates back to 1972, with the upcoming Moon landing, Artemis IV, slated for 2028.
Observant viewers can discern both the northern and southern lights (auroras) in a captured image.
In Houston, Texas, a dedicated team is monitoring the progress of the mission.
The crew conducted a brief demonstration of a CPR procedure in the weightlessness of space.
A large crowd gathered at Cape Canaveral on Wednesday to witness the spacecraft’s liftoff.
The crew is scheduled to pass by the far side of the Moon tomorrow before their return to Earth on April 10.