08 | Artemis Explained: Homeward bound

This episode of Science Friction dives into the return phase of NASA's Artemis II mission, capturing the excitement and scientific insights as the crew heads back to Earth after a historic lunar flyby. The hosts, Jacinta Bowler and Belinda Smith, highlight stunning photos transmitted from the spacecraft, including the iconic 'setting Earth' and a breathtaking eclipse image where the Moon perfectly frames the Sun, revealing the solar corona. They discuss the unexpected detection of micrometeorite impact flashes on the Moon’s far side—exciting news for future lunar base planning—and delve into the science behind crater analysis, particularly Ohm Crater, which may reveal deep lunar chemistry. Amid the science, the episode humorously unpacks a technical issue with the spacecraft’s toilet, which is blocked by a suspected chemical reaction rather than ice, forcing astronauts to revert to bags. The hosts also explore how spacecraft navigation works using GPS, star trackers, and optical cameras, and answer listener questions on rocket propulsion, space suits, and even why astronauts wear belts in zero gravity. As the capsule prepares for splashdown near San Diego, the team reflects on the mission’s human and technological triumphs.