American University Students Help NASA Track Artemis II Mission

Why this matters: This project not only aids NASA in understanding the capabilities of tracking objects leaving Earth's orbit but also inspires and excites students about science and space exploration, fostering the next generation of space professionals.

The Artemis II mission marks a significant step in returning humans to the moon, and the participation of American University students highlights the importance of involving educational institutions in space exploration efforts.

The AU team's task involves tracking the Orion spacecraft's radio waves to determine its location, distance, and speed as it orbits the moon. Using a satellite dish in a low-noise environment, the students are working to identify the spacecraft's 'blip' amidst background noise, refining their tracking capabilities and contributing to the mission's data collection.

Professor Robinson noted the palpable excitement among the students, many of whom had limited prior experience but are now actively contributing to tracking a spacecraft. This hands-on experience provides them with practical skills and a deeper understanding of the challenges and rewards of space exploration. The team will continue its tracking efforts until the Orion spacecraft splashes down in the Pacific Ocean.

Artemis II is a NASA mission that will send four astronauts on a 10-day journey around the moon as a prelude to future lunar landings.

American University is one of eight universities selected by NASA to track the Orion spacecraft's radio waves during the mission.

The tracking is taking place at a Northern Virginia farm event center affiliated with American University to minimize radio noise.

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