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NASA’s Artemis II Mission: What Went Right (And Wrong) in Space | WSJ

The Wall Street Journal • 2026-04-11T01:48:47Z • 5:03:00 • intermediate • Science

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NASA's Artemis II mission has taken a giant leap towards lunar exploration, but it wasn't without its challenges. Let's dive into the successes and hiccups of this groundbreaking journey!

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Q1. What was one of the indicators that the Artemis II launch went well?

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Q2. What issue did the crew face regarding the toilet during the mission?

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Q3. What was the false warning message received during the mission?

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Q4. How far away from the lunar surface did Orion get during its closest point?

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Q5. What is the ultimate goal of NASA's Artemis program by 2028?

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Vocabulary

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glitch

/ɡlɪtʃ/

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Definition

A minor malfunction or error in a system or process.

Example

The software update caused a glitch that temporarily disabled some features.

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anomaly

/əˈnɑːməli/

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Definition

Something that deviates from what is standard, normal, or expected.

Example

The scientists were puzzled by the anomaly in the data collected from the experiment.

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abort

/əˈbɔrt/

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Definition

To terminate a process or mission before completion.

Example

The crew had to abort the launch due to a technical failure.

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thermal

/ˈθɜrməl/

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Definition

Relating to heat or temperature.

Example

The thermal insulation kept the spacecraft at a stable temperature during its journey.

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pressurizing

/ˈprɛʃəraɪzɪŋ/

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Definition

The act of applying pressure to a system or environment.

Example

Pressurizing the cabin is essential for maintaining a breathable atmosphere in space.

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safeguard

/ˈseɪfɡɑrd/

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Definition

A measure taken to protect someone or something.

Example

The launch abort system acts as a safeguard for the crew in case of emergencies.

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