Then comes an awkwardly timed maneuver: the so-called "perigee raise" burn. Mission managers say this unassuming moment sits in the same high‑risk category as liftoff itself. The problem is when that engine burn must happen — right in the middle of the astronauts' sleep.

The Artemis II astronauts are wearing spacesuits custom-made for them by a Worcester, Massachusetts company.

Ever wonder why astronauts' flight suits are that bright orange color? It comes down to one thing. Safety (AP)