Dr. Keith Pannell talks to Dr. Jose Hurtado about today's launch of Artemis Two. The space mission which is set to last a total of ten days. In this conversation they're discussing Hurtado's role, logistics, and excitement at Houston's mission control. Dr. Hurtado is part of a science team working out of the science operation room, where they will be supporting the science office through the mission. They explain how their team needs to provide input to orientate the flight crew and capsule so that they're able to capture a clear view of the moon. Through this early part of the voyage, the crew will be conducting tests on life support systems and spacesuits while they remain in Earth's orbit conducting tests before heading toward the moon.
Dr. Hurtado is UTEP professor in the Department of Earth, Environmental and Resource Sciences. He is assisting with mission simulations at the NASA Johnson Space Center, and during the mission itself, Hurtado will work in NASA’s Science Evaluation Room and help provide real-time communications and feedback to astronauts, which can maximize scientific return during the short mission.