The Orion capsule safely splashed down in the Pacific Ocean on Thursday, marking a successful completion of its atmospheric re-entry, as detailed in CBC’s live broadcast. The capsule had previously separated from its service module, a crucial step in the mission.

Re-entry and Communication

During re-entry, the capsule endured temperatures reaching approximately 3,000 degrees Celsius (5,000 degrees Fahrenheit). A period of radio silence occurred as anticipated due to plasma build-up interfering with transmissions. However, communication with the capsule was successfully re-established shortly before splashdown. According to the broadcast, recovery crews had visual confirmation of the capsule even during the communication blackout.

Parachute Deployment and Landing

The capsule deployed a series of parachutes to slow its descent from a speed exceeding 40,000 kilometers per hour. Dr. Roberta Bonder, a former Canadian astronaut appearing on the CBC broadcast, noted the importance of the parachutes in slowing the capsule to a safe landing speed. The capsule landed at 5:07 PM Pacific Time, “almost to the second” according to the broadcast.

Upon splashdown, the crew reported being “stable one, four green,” indicating they were in good condition. Recovery teams were quickly dispatched to the capsule. Initial reports indicated the capsule landed right-side up, aided by flotation devices.

Post-Landing and Technical Issues

Following splashdown, the crew confirmed the deployment of a search and rescue beacon. However, the recovery team initially experienced issues with the signal. According to the broadcast, this was likely due to antenna issues. Dr. Bonder explained that the capsule switched to shorter-range communication systems after leaving the range of the Tracking Data Relay Satellite System (TDRS).

CBC’s coverage included commentary from former astronaut Chris Hadfield, who remarked on the historical significance of a splashdown landing, recalling similar events from the 1960s and 70s.