Crew Module Test Article

Artifact — Date: 2023 | Photo by: NASA/Kim Shiflett

Formerly the Ground Test Article (GTA), the Crew Module Test Article (CMTA) is being used to practice recovery after splashdown of the Orion spacecraft to prepare for the Artemis crewed mission. The CMTA is also known as Vehicle Advanced Demonstrator for Emergency Rescue (VADER). The matte-black capsule has a small decal of the iconic Star Wars Sith Lord next to the main hatch. The heat sheild used on the Orion EFT-1 mission was attached to it was well.

Type: Orion
Kind: Test Article
Location: In Use

Older Display

Location: Kennedy Space Center, Florida
Date: 2023
Photos by: NASA/Kim Shiflett