Overview
- NASA officials said Saturday the Orion capsule is performing well, and they do not view the toilet troubles as a mission risk.
- After an early fan jam in the urine system was fixed, a wastewater vent line later likely iced over, so controllers turned the spacecraft to warm it and told the crew to use backup urine bags while solids disposal stayed available.
- Crew members reported a heater‑like burning smell in the hygiene bay, and while ground teams suggested insulation as a possible source, the cause remains unconfirmed and the lavatory stays cleared for use.
- The crew is on a free‑return path for a day‑six swing behind the Moon that will briefly cut communications as they pass the far side before heading home.
- A final observation plan is being uplinked for the flyby, with astronauts set to make visual color notes, target features such as Mare Orientale, and capture a short solar eclipse view as the Moon blocks the Sun.