NASA's Artemis II mission is set to be a landmark event, involving the first human flight around the Moon in over half a century. The crew, comprising NASA astronauts Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover, and Christina Koch, alongside Canadian Space Agency astronaut Jeremey Hansen, will spend approximately 10 days aboard the Orion spacecraft.

Their itinerary is packed with critical objectives, ranging from science experiments and spacecraft maneuverability tests to medical evaluations and survival training. The mission's success hinges on executing these tasks flawlessly as they pave the way for sustained human presence on the lunar surface.

Mission Commencement: Launch and Early Orbits

The Crucial First Minutes

The initial eight minutes of the Artemis II mission are paramount, involving the ascent atop NASA's rocket. This phase includes the jettisoning of the two solid rocket boosters, followed by the separation of the 212-foot tall first stage.

Achieving Earth Orbit and Proximity Operations

After reaching space, Orion and its service module remain attached to the SLS's Interim Cryogenic Propulsion Stage (ICPS). Within the first few hours post-liftoff, the crew will execute two engine burns using the ICPS to establish a high elliptical orbit around Earth.

Following this, the crew will detach from the ICPS to conduct proximity operations, or "prox ops." This maneuver tests Orion's capability to fly alongside and maneuver around another object, simulating future operations with the Artemis lunar lander.

Systems Checks and First Rest

Once prox ops are complete, the ICPS will fire one final time to set itself on a trajectory to safely burn up in Earth's atmosphere. The Artemis II crew will then begin comprehensive systems checks, stow their launch couches, and change into more comfortable attire before their first sleep cycle.

The daily sleep schedule allocates at least 8.5 hours for rest, though the first rest period will be divided by an additional orbit-raising burn.

Journey Toward the Moon

Day 2: Testing and Exercise

Building on lessons learned from long-duration stays on the International Space Station, NASA has equipped Orion with exercise equipment. On their first full day in space, each astronaut is scheduled to use the spacecraft's flywheel exercise device.

However, this workout is secondary to the day's main objective: preparing for the journey beyond Earth orbit.

Day 2: Translunar Injection Burn

Approximately six hours after waking, the crew will strap in for the translunar injection (TLI) burn. This critical 30-minute firing of the Orion service module engine commits the mission to its lunar flyby trajectory.

The TLI burn sets the spacecraft on a free-return trajectory, which loops around the far side of the Moon and slingshots back toward Earth, effectively serving as the course correction for their return.

Day 3: Lunar Flyby Rehearsals

As they head toward the Moon, the third day is dedicated to practicing the tasks required during the lunar flyby. The crew has only about three hours during the closest approach to complete their survey and record observations.

Rehearsals are vital to familiarize the crew with performing these zero-g tasks, which may differ from simulator environments. Hansen is also scheduled to prepare Orion for a minor trajectory correction burn later in the day. Safety demonstrations, including CPR procedures, are also planned.

Day 4: Outbound Operations

On the fourth full day, while still traveling outward, Orion will perform a second small trajectory correction burn. Much of the day will involve standard operations like communications with Mission Control and public affairs media events.

The crew also has reserved time for reviewing lunar imaging targets and practicing scoping out specific geographic points they need to observe during the flyby. Twenty minutes are specifically set aside for photography.

Lunar Space and Flyby Day

Day 5: Entering Lunar Space

Flight day 5 marks the moment the Moon's gravity overtakes Earth's influence, officially placing the Artemis II crew in lunar space. This makes them the first humans to venture into this region since 1972.

The early hours of the day are dedicated to testing the spacesuits. This includes assessing the crew's ability to rapidly don, pressurize, and strap into their seats, as these suits are essential for launch, reentry, and emergency depressurization scenarios.

Day 6: The Lunar Flyby

This is the mission's focal point: the flyby of the Moon. Shortly after waking, the astronauts will commence their lunar observation operations.

Orion's closest approach will position the spacecraft between 4,000 and 6,000 miles above the lunar surface. During the swing around the far side, the crew will spend about three hours recording observational data, tracking geological formations, and taking photographs.

This trajectory may take them further from Earth than any previous crewed mission, offering unique views of the Moon.

Return Trajectory and Earth View

Day 7: Data Relay and Historic Call

Orion exits lunar space on the morning of Day 7. The crew will spend the first half of the day relaying performance data, physical experiences, and psychological feedback to scientists on Earth.

A historic milestone will occur in the afternoon: the first time astronauts flying beyond low Earth orbit will communicate back to Earth while knowing others are in space. A short audio call is scheduled between Orion and the crew aboard the International Space Station.

The crew will also initiate the first of three small correction burns needed to fine-tune Orion's return trajectory for a precise landing.

Remaining Days

As the spacecraft coasts back toward Earth, NASA has reserved time for further activities. The crew will continue to rest, reflect, and enjoy off-duty time before the final leg of their journey home.