NASA计划在2027年的阿尔忒弥斯III任务中进行月球登陆器的轨道演练，以验证两家商业承包商的原型系统能否安全执行复杂机动[1]。该测试将使Orion宇航员分别与SpaceX和蓝色起源的登陆器进行汇合和对接操作，为2028年开始的载人月球登陆做准备[1]。
SpaceX将使用52米高的Starship第3版进行鼻对鼻对接[1]，该公司已在2023年通过对接能力认证[1]。蓝色起源将测试其Mark 2机组舱架构，其登陆器可在轨道上停留长达30天，最多两名宇航员将穿着橙色Orion船员生存系统套装进入该登陆器[1]。蓝色起源在今年早期进行了加压对接系统的地面测试[1]。
NASA计划在相对较短的时间内依次发射三枚重型火箭完成此次任务[1]，这将是NASA迄今最复杂和最具雄心的任务之一[1]。
NASA plans to perform in-orbit demonstrations of lunar landers from SpaceX and Blue Origin during the Artemis III mission scheduled for 2027, marking a critical validation phase before resuming human Moon landings [1]. Orion crew members will conduct rendezvous and docking maneuvers with prototype landers from both companies, testing complex operations and system integration essential to the program's success [1]. These orbital demonstrations are designed to prepare for crewed lunar surface missions beginning in 2028 [1].
The testing approach reflects NASA's commitment to validating multiple lunar architecture concepts. SpaceX will employ its Starship Version 3, which stands 52 meters (171 feet) tall, for a nose-to-nose docking configuration with the Orion spacecraft [1]. Blue Origin will test its Mark 2 crew cabin architecture, with its lunar lander capable of remaining in orbit for up to 30 days and accommodating up to two Artemis III astronauts wearing orange Orion crew survival system suits during transfer operations [1]. Three heavy-lift rockets will launch in succession over a relatively short timeframe, representing one of NASA's most ambitious and complex missions to date [1].
Both companies have demonstrated preparedness for these milestone tests. SpaceX achieved docking capability certification in 2023, while Blue Origin completed ground testing of its pressurized docking system earlier this year [1].