Summary
During the Artemis mission, astronauts will lose radio contact with Earth for 40 minutes as their spacecraft passes behind the Moon. This temporary communication blackout is similar to what Apollo astronauts experienced, but future missions aim to prevent such gaps with new satellite networks.
Key Facts
- Artemis astronauts will lose contact with Earth for 40 minutes while behind the Moon.
- The blackout occurs because the Moon blocks radio and laser signals between the spacecraft and Earth.
- This experience of losing contact was similar for Apollo astronauts, including Michael Collins in 1969.
- The European Space Agency is planning satellite networks to maintain constant communication.
- Goonhilly Earth Station in England tracks the spacecraft and helps maintain contact with mission control.
- The signal loss highlights the need for continuous communication, especially for future Moon missions.
