NASA is preparing to make history with the Artemis II mission, as astronauts Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover, Christina Koch, and Jeremy Hansen get ready for a journey around the Moon. The flight marks the first time humans will travel beyond low Earth orbit since NASA’s Apollo missions ended in 1972, signaling a major step in the agency’s long-awaited return to deep space exploration.
Part of NASA’s broader Artemis program, the mission is designed to pave the way for future lunar landings and eventually human missions to Mars. Over the course of the flight, the four-person crew will test critical systems aboard the Orion spacecraft as they travel around the Moon and back to Earth.
Here’s everything to know about the crew, timing, mission length, and how to watch.
Who Is in the Artemis II Crew?
The Artemis II crew includes four astronauts: Wiseman, Victor Glover, Christina Koch, and Jeremy Hansen.
Wiseman will serve as commander, bringing prior International Space Station experience and leadership as NASA’s former chief astronaut. Glover, a U.S. Navy captain and test pilot, will serve as pilot and help operate the spacecraft. Koch, a veteran astronaut who spent 328 days in space, will serve as a mission specialist and is set to become the first woman to fly around the Moon. Hansen, a Canadian astronaut, will also serve as a mission specialist and will become the first Canadian to travel around the Moon.
When Is the Artemis II Launch Date & Time?
Artemis II is targeting a launch on April 1, 2026, with a launch window beginning at approximately 6:24 p.m. ET.
Where Is Artemis II Launching From?
The mission will launch from Launch Complex 39B at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the same historic site used for Apollo missions.
How Long Will Artemis II Be in Space?
The mission is expected to last about 10 days, during which the crew will travel around the Moon and return to Earth without landing.
How Can I Watch the Artemis II Launch?
You can watch the Artemis II launch live on NASA+, as well as on NASA’s official website, YouTube channel, and other streaming platforms and TV networks covering the event.
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