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Historic Earth Photo
The Artemis II crew captured a striking photograph of Earth that quickly spread around the world.
“Commander Reid Wiseman called it a spectacular moment”
Commander Reid Wiseman called it a spectacular moment that paused all four astronauts in their tracks.
The image showed Earth from tens of thousands of miles away, capturing vibrant blues and browns and even two auroras.
This was the first crewed lunar mission in more than 50 years.
Far Side of the Moon
The Artemis II crew began exploring the Moon's far side, the first humans to do so since 1972.
They observed regions never before seen with the naked eye.
Scientists have tasked the crew with reconnaissance work based on a detailed wish list of targets.
The human eye allows detection of subtle color nuances previously unappreciated from robotic sensors.
Crew Comfort and Flight Progress
The astronauts have managed to rest comfortably in the 16.5-foot-wide habitable volume.
“They have been able to rest and sleep comfortably in their 16.5-foot-wide Orion capsule”
NASA planned a menu of 189 unique, shelf-stable items designed to minimize crumbs.
Tortillas feature prominently as a versatile staple.
The crew executed a flawless burn that sent them toward the Moon.
Representation and Legacy
Only 24 people have seen the Moon's far side with their own eyes, all men from Apollo missions.
Artemis II will add four more astronauts including a woman, a Black man, and a Canadian.
Canadian astronaut Jeremy Hansen said humanity has once again shown what we are capable of.
The growing diversity reflects changes since Apollo.