I was wondering why the Artemis 2 reentry velocity was so high. A little googling informed me of the reasons. One is the fact using the Moon to slingshot it back to Earth leads to a higher speed. Another is it saved fuel, and the most concerning: To test the heat shield....which generally doesn't yield good results when it fails.
The reentry is forecast to beat Apollo 10's record of reentry speed. That speed is right at escape velocity, which (if my ignorance is correct) will mean only one shot at reentry. Otherwise, a miss will mean a gravity assist from Earth, and the capsule will be flung out into space.
The astronauts are in for the ride, and I have to admire their bravery/recklessness. Their are no mistakes with this mission, and all have terrible consequences. May God be with them.
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