The Digester
science

Artemis II starts crewed mission to the Moon

NASA will send four crew on Artemis II using the SLS rocket and Orion capsule on a planned lunar flyby, a milestone in a 15 year international effort that includes contributions from Spain.

Apr 1st 2026 · United States

Insights

  • Artemis II will carry four astronauts on a planned lunar flyby aboard NASA’s Orion capsule launched by the SLS rocket.
  • This is the first crewed Artemis mission and the first human trip to the Moon in about 50 years.
  • The Space Launch System is NASA’s most powerful rocket and one of the largest rockets ever built.
  • Spain and other international partners contributed hardware and expertise, including elements for the spacecraft life support system.
  • The mission is the result of more than 15 years of development and multinational collaboration.

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