I don’t think the criticisms on HN are related to Artemis’ imperfect concept and technical design.
They’re almost exclusively related to political reasons. “There are problems in the world, therefore I can’t enjoy this” is flawed reasoning and isn’t even something that they apply to any other interest. It’s just special pleading.
> I'd love to read your family member(s) criticisms; anywhere to do so? The perspective of a former NASA employee could be fascinating.
Personal emails? These aren't the kind of people to blog.
If you want a brief summary they, like many, feel this whole thing is a farce due to how the project has be designed and spec'd. I think smarter every day did a wonderful youtube video comparing what kind of documentation and planning they had for the past launches, and how it sure as shit doesn't look like they're anywhere near that right now (he's much nicer about it). NASA is doing their best, but the simple truth is the actual "landing" plan feels like it vomited out by a bunch a suits who don't understand reality and wanted headlines.
A decent anecdote from the discussion that summarizes feelings:
One of them got to spend a week in Cape Kennedy due to winning an Essay contest and met Frank Borman. To quote him
> The topic of the essay was, What is man's future in space?
> I believe that, had I written, 55 years from now we will beat the Chinese to the Moon, I would not have won.
They’re almost exclusively related to political reasons. “There are problems in the world, therefore I can’t enjoy this” is flawed reasoning and isn’t even something that they apply to any other interest. It’s just special pleading.