Technology and Science01 April, 20261 min read
European Service Module Powers Artemis II Moon Voyage, Carries Four Astronauts
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Airbus-built European Service Module-2 fully integrated, fueled, and ready for Artemis II. ESM-2 provides propulsion, power, thermal control, and life support to the Orion spacecraft.
ESM Powers Artemis II
The ESM is fully integrated, fueled, and ready for flight. The module carries 90 kilograms of oxygen and 240 kilograms of drinking water. The transition from Artemis I to Artemis II marks the shift from a test vehicle to a living space.
Key Technologies and Life Support
Artemis II marks the debut of the ESM's active life support capabilities. The module provides about 11.2 kilowatts of electrical power from solar panels. Without the ESM, the Orion capsule would simply not operate.
Pan-European Collaboration
The ESM-2 represents a culmination of pan-European cooperation involving multiple countries. French companies Safran and ArianeGroup contribute propulsion technologies. The effort extends across the continent linking 300 sub-contractors and 60 universities.