05 | Artemis Explained: Science in space

This episode of Science Friction dives into the scientific objectives of NASA's Artemis II mission, the first crewed flyby of the Moon in over 50 years. Hosts Jacinta Bowler and Belinda Smith explore the array of experiments being conducted aboard the Orion capsule, from monitoring astronauts' health via smartwatches and organ-on-a-chip devices to collecting saliva samples to study immune system changes in space. They highlight the unique vantage point Artemis II offers—allowing human eyes to see the Moon's far side and poles for the first time in decades—providing new context for lunar surface processes like impact cratering. The episode also touches on the broader scientific and technological implications, including Australia's role in testing a low-cost quantum optical receiver for high-speed data transmission from space. While speculation about mining helium-3 for fusion energy is discussed, the hosts emphasize that the technology remains decades away from practical use. The episode blends humor with science, capturing the human side of spaceflight—like the challenges of living in a tiny capsule and managing waste—while underscoring the mission’s significance as a bridge between past lunar exploration and future deep space ambitions. The combination of real-time astronaut experiences, cutting-edge research, and global collaboration paints a vivid picture of modern space science in action.