New footage shows moment Orion capsule hatch is opened at sea
New footage reveals the moment Orion capsule hatch is opened at sea
A recently disclosed video captures the instant when a recovery team unsealed the hatch of Artemis II’s Orion capsule, leading to a cheerful gathering with the four astronauts aboard. The clip highlights the successful return of Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover, Christina Koch, and Jeremy Hansen after their splashdown on April 10. Cheers erupted as the crew was confirmed safe and in good health following the mission’s conclusion.
The historic mission marked a significant milestone, as the astronauts ventured farther from Earth than any human before. This achievement has sparked global interest in space exploration. Meanwhile, BBC science correspondent Pallab Ghosh delves into the challenges of medical emergencies in space, offering insights into how astronauts are managed when unwell.
As the spacecraft’s journey continued, the 98-meter-tall Space Launch System (SLS) and Orion capsule undertook a four-mile trek from their assembly facility to Pad 39B at the Kennedy Space Center. This movement underscored the logistical complexity of preparing for such missions. In unrelated news, Tenerife experienced snowfall due to Storm Therese, affecting the Canary Islands.
Global landmarks dimmed during a worldwide blackout event
On Saturday night, the Eiffel Tower in France and the Sagrada Família Basilica in Barcelona were among the iconic sites that turned off their lights for an hour. This synchronized event, dubbed a “global blackout,” aimed to raise awareness about energy conservation and climate change. Steve Backshall, during a wildlife expedition, encountered two of the UK’s last surviving orcas, which he called one of his “greatest British wildlife moments.”
Weather warnings and city spaces take center stage
The Met Office has issued severe weather alerts for wind and rain, signaling potential disruptions across the UK. Baroness Kathy Willis emphasizes the role of urban green and blue spaces in enhancing city life, advocating for their preservation. London Zoo’s annual animal weigh-in, where over 10,000 creatures were measured, provided a snapshot of the park’s animal health and well-being.
Meanwhile, researchers studying the atmosphere of planet K2-18b have identified molecular signatures typically associated with simple Earth-based organisms. This discovery has reignited discussions about the possibility of life beyond our planet. BBC Verify’s Ben Chu examines the data behind President Trump’s claim that wind power contributes to rising energy bills in the UK.
