NASA Faces Critical Heat Shield Challenges Ahead of Artemis II Moon Mission
A recent NASA watchdog report highlights over 100 cracks in the Orion capsule's heat shield, posing a significant risk to the upcoming crewed lunar mission.
- The damaged heat shield, discovered post-Artemis I mission, could jeopardize the safety of the crew during reentry from the moon.
- NASA's inspector general urges immediate resolution to prevent potential loss of vehicle and crew in future missions.
- External experts have been enlisted to review the issue, with no definitive solution yet identified.
- Modifications to the heat shield and reentry trajectory are being considered to mitigate risks.
- Artemis II, slated for no earlier than September 2025, will be a crucial test for NASA's Moon to Mars campaign.
Sun Sentinel 
Ars Technica 