NASA's Artemis II: A New Era of Lunar Exploration

Tue Mar 31 2026 15:00:23 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

The Artemis II mission marks NASA's first lunar journey since 1972, sending a diverse team of astronauts on a flyby to explore the moon's far side while preparing for future missions.

NASA's Artemis II mission is set to take humanity back to the moon after over 50 years. This mission will involve a flyby of the lunar surface, featuring a diverse crew that includes the first woman, first person of color, and first non-American astronaut to venture to lunar orbit. The crew will practice docking maneuvers, explore the far side of the moon through their viewports, and aim for a splashdown in the Pacific Ocean upon their return.

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. (AP) — NASA is set to embark on its first lunar flight since 1972 with the Artemis II mission. The mission involves sending four astronauts on a lunar flyby, which will take them several thousand miles beyond the moon, with no stops for a moonwalk. The journey is designed to last less than ten days, showcasing a throwback to the Apollo missions while paving the way for future lunar exploration.

The crew for Artemis II includes some groundbreaking members: the first woman, first person of color, and first non-American astronaut to take part in such a journey. Commander Reid Wiseman, pilot Victor Glover, mission specialist Christina Koch, and mission specialist Jeremy Hansen will work together to prepare for future missions on the moon.

The newly developed Space Launch System rocket stands 322 feet tall and is designed to be even more powerful than the historic Saturn V rocket, capable of sending astronauts into orbit around the moon. The crew will practice essential procedures during their mission, such as steering their capsule around a target upper stage meant to simulate future lunar landing capabilities.

As the inner workings of this mission unfold, the crew will have the unique opportunity to observe never-before-seen regions of the lunar far side. Anticipating their photo frenzy, the astronauts will be equipped with professional cameras as well as the latest smartphones, enabling them to capture stunning images of the lunar surface for future generations.

The mission will conclude with a splashdown into the Pacific Ocean, reminiscent of the Apollo era, where recovery ships will be stationed to welcome the astronauts back home.