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NASA Artemis II Crew Returns Home After Moon Mission
Astronauts reflect on historic journey as they splash down in the Pacific off California
Apr. 9, 2026 at 9:33pm
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The safe return of the Artemis II crew marks a major milestone in NASA's ambitious plan to establish a sustainable human presence on the Moon.Houston TodayThe Artemis II crew is headed home after completing their mission to orbit the Moon. As they make their way back to Earth, the astronauts have shared reflections on their historic journey, including a phone call with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney. The crew is set to undergo medical evaluations before traveling to NASA's Johnson Space Center in Houston.
Why it matters
The successful Artemis II mission marks a major milestone in NASA's Artemis program, which aims to return humans to the Moon for the first time since the Apollo era. The mission provides valuable data and experience that will help pave the way for future Artemis lunar landings, including the planned Artemis III mission that will put the first woman and next man on the lunar surface.
The details
After completing their mission to orbit the Moon, the Artemis II crew is now heading home. The astronauts will undergo post-flight medical evaluations in the spacecraft's onboard medical bay before traveling back to shore and then on to NASA's Johnson Space Center in Houston. During their journey home, the crew members shared reflections on their historic mission, including a phone call with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney.
- The Artemis II mission launched on April 3, 2026.
- The crew is expected to splash down in the Pacific Ocean off the coast of California on April 9, 2026.
The players
Artemis II Crew
The four-person crew of the Artemis II mission, which included two American astronauts, one Canadian astronaut, and one Japanese astronaut.
Mark Carney
The Prime Minister of Canada, who spoke with the Artemis II crew during their journey home.
NASA
The United States space agency that is leading the Artemis program, which aims to return humans to the Moon.
What they’re saying
“It was an honor to represent Canada on this historic mission. We've learned so much and can't wait to share our experiences with the world.”
— Canadian Artemis II Astronaut
What’s next
The Artemis II crew will undergo further medical evaluations and debriefings at the Johnson Space Center in Houston before NASA begins preparations for the next Artemis mission, which is scheduled to land astronauts on the lunar surface.
The takeaway
The successful Artemis II mission is a major step forward for NASA's ambitious Artemis program, which aims to establish a sustainable human presence on the Moon. The crew's safe return to Earth and the valuable data collected will help inform future Artemis missions and bring the goal of lunar exploration one step closer.
