NASA’s Next Giant Leap: The Tech Behind the Artemis Mission

Trish shares how NASA’s processes have evolved since her early days at the agency. “When I first came to NASA, it was very paper-based. Procedures were printed and physically stamped to confirm task completion. Now, it’s all done electronically, saving time and reducing errors.”

Today, NASA relies on advanced systems to streamline operations, from work control systems to CAD models. Terry Hill, Digital Engineering Program Manager, explains the evolution of engineering approaches: “In the Apollo program, we used pen and paper for designs. Now, we create full interactive 3D models of the rocket and launch systems. These tools allow us to check parameters down to a fraction of an inch, reducing the risk of errors and improving precision.”

The Artemis II Space Launch System (SLS) exemplifies this modern approach. Its assembly takes place in the iconic Vehicle Assembly Building (VAB), the largest building by volume in the world.

The VAB is where NASA integrates components like the Orion capsule, core stage, and solid rocket boosters. From a platform 16 stories high, engineers oversee assembly operations with meticulous care.

Christal Jolly, NASA Core Stage Operations Manager, describes the intricate process: “When flight hardware arrives, we lift it to the roof and carefully position it for integration. This work requires precision and nerves—this is only the second time it’s ever been done.”

The core stage, a critical component of the Artemis rocket, measures 212 feet and weighs approximately 215,000 pounds. It houses fuel tanks, flight instrumentation, and the flight termination system. Christal’s team determines its weight and center of gravity (CG), feeding this data into digital engineering tools to optimize the rocket’s performance. “These tools allow us to predict and resolve issues in ways that weren’t possible during Apollo,” says Terry Hill.

In the Apollo era, NASA often kept duplicate hardware, known as “hanger queens” or “iron birds,” for testing and troubleshooting. Today, NASA uses digital twins—virtual replicas of physical systems.

“A digital twin allows us to investigate anomalies, simulate scenarios, and forecast outcomes faster than real time,” Terry explains. “This approach reduces risk, cost, and time while maintaining precision.”

Christal highlights how NASA’s digital tools aid in problem-solving. “If we encounter an issue during a job, we can test solutions in our design visualization lab. These models are accurate down to the bolt, ensuring real-time problem-solving and minimizing delays.”

The Artemis rocket’s journey to the launch pad begins with the massive crawler, a vehicle capable of carrying 18 million pounds. It moves at just one mile per hour, taking seven to eight hours to cover a few miles.

Trish describes the scale of the operation: “The crawler transports the entire launch system—rocket, solid rocket boosters, and mobile launcher—to a completely clean launch pad, a capability that didn’t exist during Apollo.”

Though the crawler’s journey is awe-inspiring, walking alongside it is no small feat. “People usually walk part of the way, get their pictures, and decide they’ve walked far enough,” Trish jokes.

On launch day, the Artemis rocket is fueled with a mix of liquid and solid rocket propellants. Solid rocket boosters, once ignited, cannot be extinguished, adding an element of risk to the operation.

Trish explains the fueling process: “We use parallel tanking for the core stage and ICPS (Interim Cryogenic Propulsion Stage), enabled by simulations and digital engineering. These tools confirmed the feasibility of the process before it was attempted in reality.”

When the engines ignite, the rocket launches with incredible force. “The vibrations are felt in waves, and the sight of the rocket ascending is magical,” says Terry.

Safety is paramount in human spaceflight. “Modern digital engineering lets us run high-resolution simulations to assess risk and enhance safety margins,” says Terry. The lessons learned from past accidents deeply inform NASA’s commitment to protecting astronauts and ensuring mission success.

Christal and Trish also reflect on the changing dynamics within NASA. “When I started, I was often the only woman in the room,” Trish says. “Now, there are more women in engineering roles, and we’re working to inspire the next generation, particularly young girls, to pursue careers in STEM.”

NASA’s Artemis program represents a new chapter in space exploration, marked by collaboration with industrial partners. Terry emphasizes the importance of this approach: “We’re going back to the moon with the support of an entire industry. It’s a shared journey that’s crucial for the space program, the United States, and humanity.”

For Christal, the journey from concept to launch feels like magic: “Watching an idea turn into a rocket that’s now launching to the moon is incredible. It’s a legacy for the human race.”

The dedication of NASA’s engineers, combined with modern digital tools, is setting the stage for a future where space exploration knows no bounds.