SpaceX and NASA released a series of images simulating how the Starship launch system brings astronauts from the Artemis program to land on the lunar surface.
Simulation of the HLS version of Starship built by SpaceX landing on the lunar surface in NASA’s Artemis program. Image: SpaceX
A new series of simulation images shows the many steps that SpaceX’s Starship reusable launch system needs to perform during NASA’s Artemis 3 lunar landing mission, expected to take place as early as 2026. Space reported on November 21.
Specifically, the white version called Human Landing System (HLS) of Starship will pair the nose with NASA’s Orion spacecraft in lunar orbit. Astronauts in the Orion capsule will move to Starship. Then, Starship brought them to land on the lunar surface, becoming the first people to set foot on this celestial body since 1972.
The HLS simulation pairs the nose with the Orion (top) and the belly with the regular Starship (bottom). Image: SpaceX
One of the new images shows two Starship vehicles, a normal version and an HLS version, docking their abdomens to transfer fuel from one ship to the other. Because HLS carries heavy equipment to the Moon, it takes a lot of fuel to escape Earth’s gravity. It will need to be refueled on its journey to the Moon, so SpaceX must develop orbital refueling technology. The company tested a different form of fuel transfer during Starship’s third test flight.
The HLS version of Starship has a significantly different structure than the standard version. In the simulated image, the HLS is equipped with windows for the crew to look out and does not have fins like the conventional version. It also has a glossy white exterior, which is different from the usual stainless steel exterior with black heat protectors.
Simulation of astronauts descending to the lunar surface after leaving HLS by elevator. Image: SpaceX
Other simulated images show HLS burning two of the six Raptor engines to decelerate and land on the Moon. Next, two astronauts wearing Axiom Space spacesuits descended to the lunar surface by elevator.
Two astronauts, Peggy Whitson (Axiom Space) and Doug Wheelock (NASA), tested this feature in June 2024. They donned Axiom Space spacesuits and conducted tests with the HLS mockup at SpaceX headquarters in California. The test helped confirm that there is enough space in the HLS’s airtight compartment, floor and elevator for astronauts to perform missions while wearing Axiom suits.
NASA postponed the Artemis 3 mission to September 2026, when the original target was 2024. The delay was due to hardware development issues, including problems with Orion’s heat shield and progress. Starship development program to get this vehicle ready to fly into a stretched orbit.