Astronauts Nicole Mann and Doug Wheelock participated in the tests of the model of the elevator that will be equipped with SpaceX’s Starship HLS transport system. Artemis III and Artemis IV are being developed for lunar missions.

The elevator concept features a full-scale cabin section with functioning mechanicals and controls. When astronauts go on a lunar “walk,” they will carry equipment and crew between the Starship HLS space atop the lander and the lunar surface.

A recent test allowed astronauts to interact with a flight-like elevator structure. They estimated the space available for cargo as the basket moved along Starship HLS’ vertical rail system.

“The functional demonstration provided valuable feedback from astronauts wearing spacesuits that mimic the suits Axiom Space developed for the moon landing,” NASA said.