ESA's European Service Module Powers Orion's Lunar Journey
Summary
The article highlights the critical role of the European Space Agency (ESA) in the Orion spacecraft mission. The European Service Module provides power, propulsion, life support, and thermal control for Orion's journey around the Moon and back to Earth. Key features include four large solar arrays, 33 engines (including a repurposed Space Shuttle engine), and systems that supply air, water, and temperature regulation for astronauts.
Source
Twitter / XESA's European Service Module Powers Orion's Lunar Journeyesamultimedia.esa.intKey quotes
· 4 pulledWithout ESA engineering, Orion would be going nowhere.
The European Service Module powers, propels and sustains the Orion spacecraft and its crew on their journey around the Moon and safely back to Earth.
A quartet of solar arrays, each stretching seven metres, give electricity to the spacecraft, while its systems provide air, water, and a comfortable temperature for the astronauts.
Thirty-three engines, including a powerful repurposed Space Shuttle engine, would guide Orion through deep space and perform critical manoeuvres on the lunar journey.
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