NASA’s Orion Spacecraft with Artemis I is not the usual kind of unmanned mission. However, NASA is sending a mannequin on a space mission and putting it in the commander’s seat. Moreover, NASA is giving you the chance to choose its name. Here’s how you can take part in its naming.
But first, why is a mannequin going to space?
NASA engineers are ready the Artemis I flight data with previous stimulations and a mannequin will help them prepare for Artemis II, a human mission. Also, joining him are Helga and Zohar, two model human torsos. Since they are equipped with radiation sensors and Orion Crew Survival System Spacesuits, the mannequins will collect loads of data.
“It’s critical for us to get data from the Artemis I moonikin to ensure all of the newly designed systems, coupled with an energy dampening system that the seats mounted on, integrate and provide the protection crew members will need in preparation for our first crewed mission on Artemis II,” said Jason Hutt, the NASA lead for Orion Crew Systems Integration.
How can you name the Moonikin?
The space agency is holding a challenge named “Name the Artemis Moonikin Challenge.” They’re taking it to social media every other day from June 16 to June 28 to take polls on bracket styles and names until there’s a unanimous winner.
“Inviting the public to participate in the naming contests and other challenges is important to bring people along for the journey and inspire the next generation of explorers. We look forward to the final name selected for the moonikin and encourage people to follow along as we work toward a long-lasting presence on and around the Moon and get ready for the first mission to Mars,” said Kathryn Hambleton, a NASA spokesperson. Besides, as per NASA’s release, voters can choose one of the eight names mentioned below.
- ACE = Straightforward, practical. Stands for Artemis Crew Explorer.
- CAMPOS = Resourceful, problem-solver. It is a dedication to Arturo Campos, a key player in bringing Apollo 13 home.
- DELOS = Nostalgic, romantic. Inspired by an island where Apollo and Artemis were born, according to Greek myth.
- DUHART = Warm, welcoming. This name is a dedication to Irene Duhart Long, the chief medical officer at Kennedy Space Center.
- MONTGOMERY = Pioneer, innovative. A dedication to Julius Montgomery, the first African American to work at the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station as a technical professional.
- RIGEL = Bright, inspirational. The giant superstar in the Orion constellation.
- SHACKLETON = Secretive, abundant. A crater on the Moon’s south pole and a reference to a famous Antarctic explorer.
- WARGO = Enthusiastic, passionate. This name is a dedication to Michael Wargo, the agency’s first Chief Exploration Scientist.
So far, out of ACE and WARGO, the people have chosen ACE. In addition to that, DELOS was victorious from a faceoff with DUHART. The winners among CAMPOS – SHACKLETON and, MONGOMERY – RIGEL will lead to the next bracket.