NASA is set to launch Artemis II, sending astronauts around the Moon after decades, testing systems crucial for future lunar landings and long-duration deep space missions.

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• Artemis II will mark the first human journey around the Moon since 1972, reviving deep space exploration after a long pause in crewed lunar missions.
• The mission will carry four astronauts on a nearly ten-day flight, orbiting the Moon and returning safely without attempting a landing on the surface.
• NASA will evaluate critical onboard systems, including life support, navigation, and communication technologies, ensuring safety and efficiency for future long-duration space missions.
• The mission is a key part of the Artemis programme, which aims to establish a sustained human presence on the Moon over the coming decade.
• The crew will travel aboard the Orion spacecraft, launched by the powerful Space Launch System rocket designed for deep space human exploration missions.
• Artemis II highlights diversity by including the first woman, first person of colour, and first non-American astronaut on a mission beyond low Earth orbit.
• The mission has faced delays due to technical challenges, but it remains a crucial step in preparing for upcoming Moon landing missions under Artemis III.
• Artemis II will lay the groundwork for future exploration, supporting plans to build lunar bases and eventually enable human missions to Mars.