NASA’s Artemis 2 mission is set to witness a groundbreaking change in the transportation of astronauts to the launch pad. Canoo Technologies Inc., an electric vehicle manufacturer, has been chosen to provide vehicles for this crucial task.
Known for their cutting-edge and luxurious designs, the all-electric vehicles from Canoo were recently on display at the Formula 1 Grand Prix of the United States in Austin, Texas. Now, they will be entrusted with the responsibility of safely transporting the Artemis 2 astronauts to the launch pad.
Canoo has been tasked with supplying a fleet of three vehicles, each equipped with spacious interiors to accommodate a seating capacity of eight. Additionally, the vehicles boast zero-emissions technology, aligning perfectly with NASA’s commitment to environmental sustainability.
On launch day, the Canoo vehicles, known as Crew Transportation Vehicles, will embark on a nine-mile journey at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center. Starting from the Neil Armstrong Operations and Checkout Building, where the astronauts will be dressed in their spacesuits, the vehicles will make their way to Launch Pad 39B.
This transition to Canoo vehicles marks a departure from the traditional methods used to transport astronauts. In the past, astronauts were transported in modified trailers and the iconic Astrovan, which has been part of NASA’s history for several decades.
NASA’s decision to collaborate with Canoo highlights the agency’s dedication to embracing innovative technologies. By incorporating all-electric vehicles in their operations, NASA continues to lead the way in sustainable and efficient transportation methods.
The Artemis 2 mission aims to send astronauts around the Moon, marking a significant milestone in NASA’s ambitious plans to return humans to lunar exploration. The collaboration with Canoo is just one example of the agency’s continued efforts to push boundaries and partner with forward-thinking companies.
As the Artemis program progresses, space enthusiasts eagerly anticipate more groundbreaking innovations that will shape the future of space exploration. With Canoo’s cutting-edge vehicles playing a role in this historic mission, the world watches as the boundaries of traditional space travel are once again pushed to new heights.
