NASA is preparing to make history with… Artemis II missionas astronauts Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover, Christina Kochand Jeremy Hansen Prepare for a trip around the moon. The flight marks the first time humans have traveled beyond low-Earth orbit since NASA’s Apollo missions ended in 1972, marking a major step in the agency’s long-awaited return to deep space exploration.
This mission, part of NASA’s broader Artemis program, 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 important systems aboard the Orion spacecraft as they travel around the Moon and return to Earth.
Here’s everything to know about the crew, timing, mission duration, and how to watch.
Who is in the crew of Artemis II?
The Artemis 2 crew includes four astronauts: Weissman, Victor Glover, Christina Koch, and Jeremy Hansen.
Wiseman will serve as commander, bringing with him previous experience on the International Space Station and his leadership as NASA’s former chief astronaut. Glover, a US Navy captain and test pilot, will serve as pilot and help operate the spacecraft. Koch, a veteran astronaut who has 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 become the first Canadian to fly around the moon.
When is the Artemis II release date and time?
Artemis II is targeting a launch on April 1, 2026, with the launch window starting at approximately 6:24 PM ET.
Where is Artemis II released from?
The mission will launch from Launch Complex 39B at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the same historic site used for the Apollo missions.
How long will Artemis II stay in space?
The mission is expected to last about 10 days, during which the crew will orbit the moon and return to Earth without landing.
How can I watch the launch of Artemis II?
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.
