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Neoga Today
By the People, for the People
Neoga Native Played Key Role in Artemis II Shuttle's Return
Macen Stodden, a Neoga graduate, was part of the team that prepared the ship to bring the historic spacecraft back to shore.
Apr. 14, 2026 at 4:05pm
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The Artemis II mission's successful return to Earth was made possible by the tireless efforts of support personnel like Neoga native Macen Stodden.Neoga TodayMacen Stodden, a Neoga, Illinois native, was one of the few people to get a photo with the Artemis II astronauts after they splashed down in the Pacific Ocean. Stodden, who works for the Navy, was the specialist who prepared the ship to bring the shuttle back to land. He credits his other job that day - fixing the shuttle's toilet - as the reason he was able to meet the astronauts and even receive a round of applause from them.
Why it matters
The successful Artemis II mission, which saw astronauts travel farther from Earth than ever before, was a major milestone for the U.S. space program. Stodden's role in supporting the shuttle's return highlights the critical work of support personnel who help make these historic missions possible.
The details
Stodden, a graduate of Neoga High School, was tasked with preparing the ship that would retrieve the Artemis II shuttle after it splashed down in the Pacific. He credits his quick action in fixing a vacuum leak in the shuttle's toilet as the reason he was able to meet the astronauts and even receive a round of applause from them.
- The Artemis II astronauts splashed down in the Pacific Ocean on April 12, 2026.
- Stodden met the astronauts immediately after their return to shore.
The players
Macen Stodden
A Neoga, Illinois native and Navy specialist who prepared the ship that retrieved the Artemis II shuttle.
Artemis II Astronauts
The crew of the historic Artemis II mission, which saw astronauts travel farther from Earth than ever before.
What they’re saying
“Of course, a working toilet is nice. I didn't realize how much that means to them.”
— Macen Stodden, Navy Specialist
“She was like super thankful for that. And then she took all their hands, gave them hugs, and then we were able to get that picture.”
— Macen Stodden, Navy Specialist
What’s next
The Artemis II crew will continue to participate in debriefings and public events to share their experiences from the historic mission.
The takeaway
Stodden's story highlights the often unsung contributions of support personnel who play a critical role in the success of major space missions. His quick thinking and dedication to his work helped facilitate the safe return of the Artemis II astronauts.
