NASA astronauts Kate Rubins and Andre Douglas practiced moonwalking in the Arizona desert as training for future Artemis missions to the lunar surface.
The astronauts wore prototype spacesuits and conducted simulated moonwalks and technology tests over the course of a week in conditions similar to the moon’s terrain.
The training included rehearsing lunar operations, locating equipment, and practicing communications between astronauts and mission control.
NASA engineers supported the astronauts on site and virtually to test spacesuits, technologies, and procedures for Artemis 3 and beyond.
One goal was to identify any challenges with collecting science data and communication during moonwalks at the lunar south pole.
Lessons learned from the simulated missions will help improve plans for future Artemis exploration on the moon.
Previous NASA training has taken place in the Arizona desert due to its similar volcanic features and conditions to the lunar landscape.
Source: Space
