Space Post - Orion test

[Neil]

So today Orion is tested. In case you're unaware, Orion is intended to be the next launch system to take man beyond Earth and ultimately to Mars.

http://www.independent.co.uk/news/science/nasa-gives-go-ahead-to-orion-space-capsule-launch-in-test-that-could-lead-to-manned-mars-mission-9900196.html

Live Launch 12:04pm GMT - http://spaceflightnow.com/2014/12/02/orion-eft1-mission-status-center/

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Postponed... Try again tomorrow.

[MoonSylver]

Impressive looking piece of equipment. Wonder why they don't build up to Mars by returning to the moon? Surely there has to be worth wile reasons to go back there, or perhaps even build a small lab or base sort of like the orbital space station?

[Staredge]

That was worth getting up early for!!

I think going back to the moon is the plan first. They'll have to test the equipment before a Mars trip, and there's been talk of getting water and fuel material from the moon itself.

[Neil]

Wow! That seemed like a perfect test!

Well done NASA!

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/B4GujHRIEAAYxBq.png