Sacramento Scientist Plays Key Role in Historic Artemis II Mission

A Sacramento scientist is playing a critical role in one of the most anticipated space missions in decades.

Elizabeth Gabler Marquez, a neutron radiographer at the UC Davis McClellan Nuclear Research Center, has been part of the team inspecting key components for the Artemis II mission since 2021. Her work focuses on ensuring the safety and reliability of parts that are essential to the rocket’s operation.

From separation stage rings to gas propellant tanks and parachute cutters, Gabler Marquez and her colleagues examine each piece for even the smallest flaws—knowing lives depend on their precision.

“It’s definitely terrifying,” she said. “Four astronauts’ lives depend on this. It’s a lot of weight on my shoulders, but it’s also cool knowing I’m sending humans into space. I’m making history.”

Her passion for space began at a young age, inspired by the space shuttle program and earlier moon missions. That interest led her to study aerospace engineering at Sacramento State and work in the industry before joining her current role.

The Artemis II mission represents a major step forward for NASA’s goal of returning humans to the moon—and eventually sending astronauts to Mars. Gabler Marquez says the mission is not only a technological milestone but also a reminder of what people can achieve together.

“It really just shows what humans can do when they all work together,” she said.

As Artemis II continues to capture global attention, her work behind the scenes is helping ensure the mission’s success—and safety.

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