Artemis II Mission Begins Historic Journey

The Artemis II mission launched successfully from the Kennedy Space Center at 6:35 p.m., carrying four astronauts on a 10-day journey around the moon. This mission represents the first crewed lunar flight since 1972, though the astronauts will not be landing on the lunar surface during this trip.

The Crew and Their Mission

The four-member crew includes Commander Reid Wiseman, pilot Victor Glover, and mission specialists Christina Koch and Jeremy Hansen. The Orion capsule, propelled by nearly 9 million pounds of thrust, is currently traveling around the moon and is expected to travel 250,000 miles from Earth.

A Moment of National Pride

The launch was originally scheduled for February and was previously highlighted by President Donald Trump as a significant achievement for the United States. Following the launch, President Trump stated: “Economically, Militarily, and now, BEYOND THE STARS. Nobody comes close! America doesn’t just compete, we DOMINATE, and the whole World is watching.”

Record-Breaking Distance and Speed

This mission has the potential to send the crew farther from Earth than any humans have traveled before. The astronauts are traveling at supersonic speeds, reaching a peak velocity of 25,000 mph as the Orion capsule approaches Earth.

Words of Encouragement from NASA

Before the launch, NASA’s launch director, Charlie Blackwell-Thompson, addressed the Artemis II crew with these words: “Reid, Victor, Christina, and Jeremy, on this historic mission, you take with you the heart of this Artemis team, the daring spirit of the American people and our partners across the globe, and the hopes and dreams of a new generation. Good luck, Godspeed, Artemis II. Let’s go.”

Return to Earth

Upon completion of their mission, the Artemis II crew will splash down in the Pacific Ocean. The Orion capsule’s return journey will involve traveling at an incredible 25,000 mph as it re-enters Earth’s atmosphere.