Full Moon over Artemis II

NASA is preparing for its Artemis II mission, which aims to send a crew around the Moon to test vital equipment and lay the groundwork for future lunar landings. The mission represents a significant step in NASA's broader goal of returning humans to the Moon and eventually facilitating crewed missions to Mars. On January 17, 2026, NASA's Orion spacecraft, which will carry the Artemis II crew, was transported to Launch Pad 39B at Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The spacecraft rests atop the Space Launch System (SLS) rocket, which weighs 11 million pounds. The rollout occurred at a speed of just under one mile per hour. The Artemis II mission will not land on the Moon but will focus on testing the spacecraft's capabilities and establishing a foundation for future lunar exploration. Orion is designed to provide living space for four astronauts for up to 21 days without docking to another spacecraft. This mission reflects a renewed interest in lunar exploration, reminiscent of the Apollo program, which garnered global attention in the 1960s and 70s. NASA concluded a wet dress rehearsal for the Artemis II test flight early on February 1, 2026. This rehearsal is a critical step in ensuring that all systems are functioning correctly before the actual launch. The mission aims to advance technological capabilities and inspire future generations about space exploration. As nations increasingly focus on space as a domain for scientific discovery and potential resource utilization, Artemis II serves as a pivotal moment in establishing international partnerships and fostering a collaborative approach to space endeavors. The success of this mission could have lasting implications for humanity's presence beyond Earth.