NASA will launch Artemis II on April 1, 2026, marking the first human mission beyond low Earth orbit since Apollo 17.

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• Artemis II will send four astronauts on nearly 10-day mission around Moon, testing systems essential for future lunar landings under Artemis programme
• Mission uses Space Launch System rocket and Orion spacecraft, launching from Kennedy Space Centre and executing lunar flyby without landing
• Primary objective includes validating life-support systems, navigation, communication technologies and crew safety for deep-space missions
• Mission will conclude with splashdown in Pacific Ocean after completing loop around Moon and returning safely to Earth
• Crew includes astronauts from United States and Canada, marking first participation of Canadian astronaut in lunar mission
• Artemis II represents key step toward future human Moon landings and long-term space exploration missions including Mars
  Mission faced delays due to hydrogen leaks and helium system issues, later resolved through testing and repairs ensuring launch readiness