Space weather could threaten NASA’s Artemis II astronauts during their trip to the moon

image via New Scientist

March 31, 2026, 5:30 PM

• •Artemis II astronauts will be exposed to various types of space radiation, including galactic cosmic rays and solar energetic particles.
• •Space weather forecasting is inexact, and solar activity can vary significantly, increasing risks during the mission.
• •Orion capsule provides superior shielding compared to Apollo-era spacecraft and contingency plans for solar outbursts.
• •NASA relies on a network of sun-monitoring spacecraft, improved computer simulations, and biomedical data for better situational awareness.

The Artemis II mission faces potential hazards from space weather, including radiation and solar flares. NASA is closely monitoring space weather and has developed contingency plans to protect astronauts from solar outbursts. The Orion capsule offers enhanced shielding compared to previous spacecraft, and the crew will conduct a shelter-building drill. NASA's improved understanding of space weather and advanced monitoring systems provide greater situational awareness, crucial for astronaut safety.

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