NASA edges one step closer to the Moon as Orion spacecraft completes ‘most demanding’ test

Ground control would then re-evaluate with the crew and craft and plan an alternative route to the Moon.

Even if Orion changes its mission plan, it may still be able to complete some of its mission goals.

Deputy manager of the Orion Service Module at NASA’s Glenn Research Centre, Josh Freeh said: “This was our most demanding test for the pressurisation system, including our propellant tanks, valves and other components.”

The test was successful in firing Orion’s main engine and all eight of the module’s auxiliary engines at the same time.

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