Artemis II Astronauts Begin Maneuver to Adjust Earth Return Trajectory
The Artemis II mission successfully began a key maneuver to adjust its Earth return trajectory, a crucial step to ensure a safe splashdown for the Orion capsule.
TL;DR
- The Artemis II crew successfully executed the RTCB maneuver to adjust their return trajectory to Earth.
- The Orion capsule's engines were fired successfully to make the first of three planned trajectory corrections.
- A favorable weather forecast predicts a safe splashdown for Orion in the Pacific Ocean near San Diego, California.
- The Orion capsule left the Moon's sphere of influence and began its journey back to Earth.
- Mission findings are expected to support future U.S. projects, including a lunar base and human exploration of Mars.