NASA launches Artemis II for first crewed Moon flyby in 50 years

NASA launched the Artemis II mission on April 1, 2026, sending four astronauts on a historic journey around the Moon, the first crewed flight of its kind in more than 50 years. The mission, which began with the launch of the SLS rocket from Kennedy Space Center in Florida, is a pivotal step in NASA's plan to return humans to the Moon and eventually explore Mars.

The crew, consisting of NASA astronauts Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover, and Christina Koch, along with Canadian Space Agency astronaut Jeremy Hansen, is aboard the Orion spacecraft. The mission is designed to test critical systems and prepare for future lunar exploration. NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman described the launch as a defining moment for the nation and a significant step toward establishing a long-term human presence on the Moon.

After reaching space, Orion deployed its solar arrays and began transitioning into normal flight operations. The spacecraft is expected to spend about 10 days in space, including a planned lunar flyby on April 6. During this time, the crew will conduct scientific research, test the spacecraft's handling, and capture images of the Moon, including the far side, which will be partially illuminated.

The mission also includes the deployment of four CubeSats built by international partners, which will conduct scientific studies and technology demonstrations. If all systems perform as expected, Orion will execute a translunar injection burn to head toward the Moon. After the flyby, the spacecraft will return to Earth, with a planned splashdown in the Pacific Ocean.

Artemis II is the first crewed mission in NASA's Artemis program, which aims to expand human exploration of the Moon and beyond. The success of this mission paves the way for future lunar landings and the eventual journey to Mars, marking the beginning of a new era in space exploration.