NASA Debunks ‘Missing Chunk’ Theory About Artemis 2 Heat Shield
NASA says the discoloration seen on Orion after Artemis 2’s reentry isn’t a missing chunk of heat-shield material but a color change in the compression-pad area, consistent with local geometry and arc-jet testing. No abnormal ablation was observed, and a full data review will be released publicly. The crew returned safely, and Artemis 2’s postflight review will proceed to confirm there are no unanticipated issues.