Artemis II Crew Speaks Live from Space on Historic Moon Journey

Astronauts share excitement, challenges, and heartfelt messages during first crewed lunar mission in over 50 years

Apr. 3, 2026 at 4:06pm

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A bold, abstract painting in soft blues, greens, and oranges, featuring sweeping geometric arcs, concentric circles, and precise spirals, conceptually representing the complex forces and concepts of the Artemis II mission to the Moon.The Artemis II mission marks a historic return to the Moon, pushing the boundaries of human exploration and inspiring a new generation of space enthusiasts.Los Angeles Today

In a live television interview, the Artemis II crew spoke with Fox News' Trace Gallagher while traveling toward the Moon - a journey not attempted by humans since the Apollo program. The astronauts expressed awe and pride at becoming the first people in decades to venture beyond Earth's orbit, while also highlighting the practical challenges of living and working in the cramped Orion spacecraft. The crew also took time to share heartfelt messages with their families back home.

Why it matters

The Artemis II mission marks a major milestone in the renewed push for human exploration of the Moon, with NASA aiming to establish a long-term presence and prepare for future missions to Mars. This live interview provides a rare glimpse into the experiences of the astronauts undertaking this historic journey, capturing both the technical and emotional aspects of their mission.

The details

Just after completing a crucial maneuver, Artemis II commander Reid Wiseman told viewers, "We did just do our translunar injection burn, we are definitely 100% on our way to the moon." Astronaut Christina Koch acknowledged the significance of the mission, but emphasized that the "journey is so much more than just one number." Pilot Victor Glover described the excitement of launch, saying "when those solids lit, you're trying to be professional, but the kid inside of you wants to break out and just hoot and holler." Koch also provided a glimpse into the daily life aboard the Orion spacecraft, explaining how even basic tasks like sleeping are different in the microgravity environment.

  • On April 3, 2026, the Artemis II crew conducted a live television interview from space.
  • The Artemis II mission is the first crewed lunar voyage since the Apollo program, which last sent astronauts to the Moon in 1972.

The players

Reid Wiseman

Commander of the Artemis II mission and one of the four astronauts aboard the Orion spacecraft.

Christina Koch

Artemis II mission specialist and one of the four astronauts aboard the Orion spacecraft.

Victor Glover

Artemis II pilot and one of the four astronauts aboard the Orion spacecraft.

Trace Gallagher

Fox News journalist who conducted the live interview with the Artemis II crew.

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What they’re saying

“I know the United States has done this 1968 through 1972, but this is unbelievable that we can put our minds to something and pull it off.”

— Reid Wiseman, Artemis II Commander

“We are not necessarily a crew that lives on superlatives. It is a milestone that's important, but we think that the journey is so much more than just one number.”

— Christina Koch, Artemis II Mission Specialist

“When those solids lit, you're trying to be professional, but the kid inside of you wants to break out and just hoot and holler.”

— Victor Glover, Artemis II Pilot

“I would love to give a quick shout out to our families, we miss you guys already.”

— Christina Koch, Artemis II Mission Specialist

“My mom, my grandparents, all the cousins, thank you for all of the support and the love for all of these years.”

— Victor Glover, Artemis II Pilot

What’s next

The Artemis II crew is expected to reach the Moon in the coming days, where they will perform a series of scientific experiments and observations before returning to Earth.

The takeaway

The Artemis II mission represents a significant milestone in humanity's return to the Moon, showcasing the technical and human capabilities that have advanced since the Apollo era. The astronauts' candid reflections on the experience highlight both the historic nature of the journey and the personal challenges of living and working in the unique environment of space.