The launch of Artemis II marks one of the most significant moments in modern space exploration. As NASA’s first crewed mission beyond low Earth orbit in more than 50 years, it signals a decisive step towards returning humans to the Moon and, ultimately, reaching Mars.

What is Artemis II?

Artemis II is the first crewed mission in NASA’s Artemis programme, sending four astronauts on a 10-day journey around the Moon and back to Earth. Unlike the Apollo missions, it will not attempt a lunar landing. Instead, the spacecraft will perform a flyby, testing the systems needed to safely carry astronauts deeper into space in future missions.

Launched on April 1, 2026, the mission relies on two key technologies: the Space Launch System (SLS), the most powerful rocket NASA has ever built, and the Orion spacecraft, a next-generation capsule designed for deep space travel. The crew will travel more than 250,000 miles from Earth – farther than any human mission since the Apollo era.

Following launch, Orion entered Earth orbit, where astronauts began assessing how the spacecraft handled its high-speed ascent of around 17,500 mph. Early checks confirmed that key systems are performing as expected, including the successful deployment of all four solar arrays, which will provide continuous power throughout the mission.

The spacecraft is now preparing for its next major milestone: the translunar injection burn, which will send it on a roughly 240,000-mile journey towards the Moon.

Artemis II represents a return to deep space not seen since Apollo 17 in 1972, and a crucial step towards establishing a long-term human presence beyond Earth.

Meet the Artemis II crew

The four astronauts selected for Artemis II bring a mix of engineering expertise, military aviation experience and previous spaceflight.

Reid Wiseman, the mission commander, has a strong background in engineering and flight testing. A former U.S. Navy test pilot, he has also previously served aboard the International Space Station. He will lead the mission and oversee all spacecraft operations.

Victor Glover, the pilot, has a background in general engineering and is a naval aviator and test pilot. He flew on NASA’s SpaceX Crew-1 mission and became the first Black astronaut to live on the ISS for an extended period.

Christina Koch, a mission specialist, trained as an electrical engineer and physicist. She holds the record for the longest single spaceflight by a woman and will be responsible for systems monitoring and scientific operations.

Jeremy Hansen, also a mission specialist, represents Canada and is the first Canadian assigned to a lunar mission. With a background in space science and physics, as well as experience as a Royal Canadian Air Force fighter pilot, he will support mission operations and onboard systems.

Together, the crew reflects the technical skill and international cooperation central to the Artemis programme.

Why is Artemis II important?

Artemis II marks a major step forward in human space exploration, moving beyond decades of missions focused mainly on low Earth orbit. It signals a renewed commitment to deep space and a return to the Moon for the first time since the Apollo era.

The mission also lays the groundwork for a sustained human presence on the Moon. NASA’s long-term plans include building infrastructure such as a lunar base and the Gateway space station to support future exploration.

Beyond this, Artemis II forms part of a wider effort to prepare for missions to Mars. By testing the systems required for long-duration space travel, it brings the prospect of sending humans to the Red Planet closer.

It also reflects a shift towards greater international cooperation, with astronauts and technology from multiple countries contributing to what is increasingly a global effort.

What technology is behind Artemis II?

At the heart of the mission is the Space Launch System, a heavy-lift rocket capable of carrying humans beyond Earth orbit with unprecedented power. It is paired with the Orion spacecraft, designed specifically for deep space missions and equipped with advanced life-support systems, radiation protection and both manual and autonomous navigation.

Supporting Orion is the European Service Module, developed by the European Space Agency and built by Airbus. It provides propulsion, electrical power, oxygen and water – essential for sustaining the crew throughout the journey.

The mission also presents several engineering challenges. The spacecraft’s heat shield must withstand the intense temperatures of high-speed re-entry, while life-support systems must prove reliable over extended periods in deep space. Communication systems, too, must operate effectively across vast distances. For the first time, these technologies are being tested under real mission conditions with a crew on board.

What comes next?

Artemis II is not just another mission – it marks the beginning of the next phase of human space exploration. It will provide crucial data on how astronauts and spacecraft perform in deep space, helping shape what comes next.

Artemis III, expected around 2027, aims to return humans to the Moon for the first time since Apollo, with a planned landing near the lunar south pole. The focus will be on exploring new regions and testing technologies needed for longer stays.

By around 2028, Artemis IV will begin building a more permanent presence around the Moon, including the Lunar Gateway, a space station in lunar orbit designed to support ongoing missions and international collaboration.

Looking further ahead, the goal is to prepare for human missions to Mars. By using the Moon as a testing ground, NASA is laying the groundwork for sending astronauts even deeper into space.