NASA Returns to the Moon with Artemis II Mission

As the Artemis II spacecraft swings around the moon, questions arise about the mission's purpose and significance.

Apr. 5, 2026 at 3:28pm

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After nearly 54 years since the last Apollo moon landing, NASA is preparing to return to the lunar surface with the Artemis II mission. The mission, which is expected to swing closest to the moon on Monday, will not actually land on the lunar surface, but rather orbit around it. The decision to send four astronauts instead of the traditional three-person crew has raised questions, with suggestions that the crew selection may be influenced by a desire for diversity. Additionally, the choice of the name 'Artemis' for the mission has sparked curiosity about the origins and significance of the Greek goddess.

Why it matters

The Artemis II mission represents a significant milestone in the history of space exploration, as NASA seeks to reestablish a presence on the moon. The mission's timing, coming amid a period of political and social turmoil in the United States, adds an additional layer of complexity and interest. The mission's success or failure could have broader implications for the future of NASA and the nation's space program.

The details

The Artemis II spacecraft is designed to be flown by a crew of four astronauts, which is 50% more than the traditional three-person crew used during the Apollo missions. According to NASA, the expanded crew size will provide more living space for the astronauts. However, some have speculated that the decision to include a more diverse crew, with the first woman, first person of color, and first Canadian on a lunar mission, may also be a factor in the crew selection.

  • Artemis II is expected to swing closest to the moon on Monday, April 8, 2026.
  • The last moon landing was Apollo 17, which occurred on December 11, 1972.

The players

NASA

The National Aeronautics and Space Administration, the United States government agency responsible for the civilian space program, as well as aeronautics and space research.

Artemis

The Greek goddess of the hunt, the moon, and the natural environment, who is the twin sister of the god Apollo. The Artemis program is NASA's initiative to return humans to the moon.

Apollo

The NASA program that successfully landed 12 astronauts on the moon between 1969 and 1972, with the last mission being Apollo 17.

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What they’re saying

“We is here! Man, is we here.”

— Harrison (Jack) Schmitt, Rookie astronaut

“Among the crew are the first woman, first person of color, and first Canadian on a lunar mission, and all four astronauts will represent the best of humanity as they explore for the benefit of all.”

— NASA

What’s next

The Artemis II mission is expected to swing closest to the moon on Monday, April 8, 2026. NASA will be closely monitoring the mission's progress and success, as it represents a significant step towards the agency's goal of returning humans to the lunar surface.

The takeaway

The Artemis II mission marks a new era in space exploration, as NASA seeks to reestablish a presence on the moon. The mission's diverse crew and the choice of the name 'Artemis' reflect the changing priorities and values of the space program, even as it faces ongoing political and budgetary challenges. The success or failure of Artemis II could have far-reaching implications for the future of NASA and the nation's space ambitions.