Montanans Play Key Roles in Artemis II Moon Mission

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The Artemis II mission, which launched on Wednesday, features a crew of four astronauts, including two Montanans who are working as engineers on the project. Additionally, astronaut Christina Koch, who was living in Livingston, Montana when selected for the Astronaut Corps, is also part of the Artemis II crew.

Why it matters

The Artemis II mission marks the first time humans have orbited the Moon since the Apollo program ended in the 1970s. The involvement of Montanans in this historic endeavor highlights the state's contributions to the space industry and the talent pool it can provide for NASA and other aerospace companies.

The details

Engineers Jeremiah Hall and Daniel Baca, both natives of Montana, are working on the Artemis II mission for NASA. Hall graduated from Whitefish High School and earned a mechanical engineering degree from Montana State University, followed by a master's in aerospace engineering from the University of Colorado Boulder. Baca, a Flathead Valley High School alumnus, has bachelor's degrees in mathematics, computer science, and astrophysics, as well as a graduate degree in aerospace engineering from CU Boulder. Astronaut Christina Koch, who was living in Livingston, Montana when selected for the Astronaut Corps, is also part of the Artemis II crew.

• The Artemis II mission launched on Wednesday, April 4, 2026.
• The mission is expected to be completed by April 10, 2026.

What they’re saying

What’s next

The Artemis II mission is expected to be completed by April 10, 2026, marking the first time humans have orbited the Moon since the Apollo program ended in the 1970s.