Former Tennessee QB Joshua Dobbs Witnesses Historic Artemis II Moon Mission

Dobbs brings UT aerospace students to witness the launch and meet NASA astronauts and engineers.

Apr. 10, 2026 at 9:03am

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A highly structured abstract painting in soft, earthy tones featuring sweeping geometric arcs, concentric circles, and precise spirals, conceptually representing the complex forces and concepts of the Artemis II moon mission.As the Artemis II mission propels humanity back to the moon, a former Tennessee quarterback's efforts to inspire the next generation of space explorers take flight.Knoxville Today

Former University of Tennessee quarterback Joshua Dobbs, who studied aerospace engineering, had a unique perspective on the recent Artemis II mission to the moon. Dobbs was able to witness the historic launch firsthand and brought a group of UT aerospace students with him to experience the event and interact with NASA personnel. Dobbs discussed the significance of the Artemis program and how it can inspire the next generation of space explorers.

Why it matters

The Artemis program represents a major milestone in the renewed push for human space exploration, with NASA and its partners working to establish a sustainable presence on the moon. As a former student who combined his athletic and academic pursuits, Dobbs offers an inspiring perspective on how the Artemis mission can motivate young people to pursue careers in STEM fields like aerospace engineering.

The details

Dobbs, who studied aerospace engineering while playing football at Tennessee, was invited to witness the Artemis II launch in person. He took the opportunity to bring seven UT aerospace students with him, allowing them to not only see the launch but also interact with NASA astronauts and engineers the following day. The students were able to tour the visitor's center and learn about the history of the space program, with some even expressing interest in becoming astronauts themselves after the experience.

  • The Artemis II mission launched on April 10, 2026.
  • The Artemis II crew is scheduled to return to Earth later that day.

The players

Joshua Dobbs

A former University of Tennessee quarterback who studied aerospace engineering and now runs the ASTROrdinary Dobbs Foundation to provide STEM opportunities for students.

University of Tennessee at Knoxville

Dobbs' alma mater, where he was named a Torchbearer for his excellence in leadership and service.

NASA

The U.S. space agency leading the Artemis program, which aims to establish a sustainable human presence on the moon.

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What they’re saying

“Don't be afraid to do the hard thing. Don't be afraid to work hard. Don't be afraid to be yourself and push yourself and throw yourself at your interests that you enjoy and are fascinated by.”

— Joshua Dobbs, Former Tennessee quarterback

“Seeing the final product of people's hard work and their dedication and their craftsmanship − seeing it come together − it inspires myself. I think it can inspire anyone.”

— Joshua Dobbs, Former Tennessee quarterback

What’s next

The Artemis II crew is scheduled to return to Earth later today, completing the historic mission. NASA and its partners will continue to build on the data and experience gained from this flight to plan future Artemis missions, with the goal of establishing a sustainable human presence on the moon.

The takeaway

The Artemis II mission has the potential to inspire the next generation of space explorers, as demonstrated by Dobbs' efforts to bring UT aerospace students to witness the launch and interact with NASA personnel. By providing unique opportunities and experiences, Dobbs and others can help cultivate a new wave of talent in STEM fields, ensuring the continued progress of space exploration.