<p>Jeremy Hansen, the Canadian astronaut who went to the Moon on his very first mission in space, has announced his retirement.&nbsp;Hansen wrote on X, "Today, I am sharing a significant next step in my journey. This September, after 32 years of military service and 17 years as a Canadian Space Agency astronaut—culminating in the incredible privilege of flying around the Moon on Artemis II—I will be transitioning from my full–time role at the CSA." Even though Hansen has gone to space just once, he has been an astronaut since 2009. He was chosen from a pool of talent under the CSA's astronaut recruitment campaign.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Hansen took a trip around the moon from April 1 to 10 with crewmates Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover and Christina Koch as part of the Artemis II mission. The four of them became the first humans to leave low-Earth orbit and travel to the lunar satellite in nearly 50 years. They flung around the far side of the Moon, seeing a portion that humans had never seen before, travelling to the farthest point in space ever.<br>&nbsp;</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Today, I am sharing a significant next step in my journey. This September, after 32 years of military service and 17 years as a Canadian Space Agency astronaut—culminating in the incredible privilege of flying around the Moon on Artemis II—I will be transitioning from my…</p>&mdash; Jeremy R. Hansen (@Astro_Jeremy) <a href="https://x.com/Astro_Jeremy/status/2074181856040452235?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 6, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<p>Hansen further wrote that the Royal Canadian Air Force is moving him into a Reservist role, which will "leave the door open for creative, ongoing ways to support and enable the vital work happening in Canada with respect to space." &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;He thanked the Canadian Armed Forces, the CSA, NASA, our international partners, and his family for supporting him.</p><h2><strong>Reid Wiseman wishes Hansen for his next chapter</strong></h2><p>His Artemis crewmate, Wiseman, wished him the best of luck for his future endeavours. “Jeremy and I have been on this journey together for 17 years. One thing that’s never changed is Jeremy’s character. He’s thoughtful, humble, steady under pressure, and the kind of person who makes everyone around him better.”</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Can’t wait to see what’s next, my friend!!<br><br>Feeling grateful today for my Artemis II crewmate and one of my closest friends <a href="https://x.com/Astro_Jeremy?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Astro_Jeremy</a>. Jeremy and I have been on this journey together for 17 years. <br><br>One thing that’s never changed is Jeremy’s character. He’s thoughtful,… <a href="https://t.co/cozYTssMqV">pic.twitter.com/cozYTssMqV</a></p>&mdash; Reid Wiseman (@astro_reid) <a href="https://x.com/astro_reid/status/2074227491850400157?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 6, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<p>&nbsp;</p><p>Netizens were shocked by his sudden retirement, which elicited all kinds of reactions. Some thanked him for his service, others said he was leaving too soon, while a few wondered what did he see in space that led him to step down. "Too soon! 😭 Thank you for representing Canada so perfectly and making me proud to be Canadian!" one wrote, while another asked, "Many astronauts step down from active space flight duty after returning to earth.<br>What do you guys see up there that you don’t want to go back?"</p>

Jeremy Hansen, Artemis II astronaut from the Canadian Space Agency, has stepped down from his role after one trip to space. He had been an astronaut since 2009. His Artemis crewmate, Reid Wiseman, posted a heartfelt message for him.  

Jeremy Hansen, the Canadian astronaut who went to the Moon on his very first mission in space, has announced his retirement. Hansen wrote on X, "Today, I am sharing a significant next step in my journey. This September, after 32 years of military service and 17 years as a Canadian Space Agency astronaut—culminating in the incredible privilege of flying around the Moon on Artemis II—I will be transitioning from my full–time role at the CSA." Even though Hansen has gone to space just once, he has been an astronaut since 2009. He was chosen from a pool of talent under the CSA's astronaut recruitment campaign. Hansen took a trip around the moon from April 1 to 10 with crewmates Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover and Christina Koch as part of the Artemis II mission. The four of them became the first humans to leave low-Earth orbit and travel to the lunar satellite in nearly 50 years. They flung around the far side of the Moon, seeing a portion that humans had never seen before, travelling to the farthest point in space ever.

<p>Jeremy Hansen, Artemis II astronaut from the Canadian Space Agency, has stepped down from his role after one trip to space. He had been an astronaut since 2009. His Artemis crewmate, Reid Wiseman, posted a heartfelt message for him. &nbsp;</p>

Artemis II astronaut retires after just one trip to space, a user asks, 'What do you guys see up there?'

Artemis II photos of Earth, Moon and space continue to amaze and inspire awe. NASA just released over 12,000 photos from the mission, most of them duplicates you would typically see in your mobile phone album. Here are some mind-blowing photos you should not miss.

NASA dumps 12,217 new photos from Artemis II mission. Here are some of them

<p>The Artemis II crew made an appearance on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon and shared their experience of flying to the Moon. Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover, Christina Koch and Jeremy Hansen talked about the challenges they faced on the mission and the awe-inspiring moments they had in space. The crew also shared emotional moments, primarily naming a crater on the Moon after Wiseman's late wife, Carroll. As Fallon shared a photo of Wiseman looking out the window of Orion, and with a complete Earth visible, the astronaut revealed that by the third day, they had started calling their home planet, tiny Earth. Wiseman said, "Koch was looking out the window and called me over, and said, 'you should look at this'. I looked out and saw Earth." He added that the planet looked so small from far off in space that soon they started calling it tiny Earth. For most astronauts, such a moment has often been described as a moment of realisation, also known as the Overview Effect.</p><p>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/artemis-ii-astronaut-recalls-the-moment-that-gives-him-chills-and-then-it-was-1776074349461"><strong>Artemis II astronaut recalls the moment that gives him chills — ‘and then it was...’</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The crew admitted that out of everything that was happening, what stood out the most was the views. Glover said the views really got to them. "You could be eating, brushing, or getting ready for bed, and then you look out the window, and you see that Earth out there, it was amazing to see." They also talked about the challenged of being locked in the Orion, their spacecraft, for 10 days. Glover said it was like one minivan, as the crew put on a visual display of how chaotic it got. The Artemis II astronauts also saw the far side of the moon, catching views that no one had ever seen before. Hansen explained that before they actually got to the Moon, they started seeing parts that looked weird. This is when they realised they were looking at the far side.</p><p>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-artemis-ii-astronauts-oval-office-nasa-moon-mission-2026-1777526262591"><strong>Trump meets Artemis II crew, jokes about going to space as NASA eyes 2028 Moon landing</strong></a></p>

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<h2><strong>Moon crater named after astronaut's late wife</strong></h2><p>Meanwhile, Wiseman revealed it was a crew decision to name a crater on the Moon after his wife. "Christina came up with it (the idea), and Hansen asked me before launch if that was something we should do as a crew. Jeremy gave one of the moving speeches. That was a great honour for my kids; they were in Mission Control at that time, and it was deeply moving for them."</p><p>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/artemis-ii-nasa-shares-video-compilation-of-far-side-of-the-moon-an-eclipse-and-a-stunning-eartset-1775617095715"><strong>'Not out of light...': NASA shares video compilation of far side of the Moon, riddled with pockmarks</strong></a></p><h2><strong>Fireball spacecraft falling from space</strong></h2><p>Return to Earth was easily the most difficult part of the journey, Koch said, adding that it is a wild ride and the spacecraft is a literal ball of plasma, and you can see fire outside the window. Wiseman added that the spacecraft was moving at six miles per second and you "only feel the speed when it hits the atmosphere". NASA is now gearing up for the Artemis 3 mission, which is slated for 2027 before the agency lands humans on the Moon in 2028.</p>

Artemis 2 astronauts on Jimmy Fallon: The crew of the iconic NASA mission came on the Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon and talked about some of the best moments they had in space, besides sharing the challenges.

The Artemis II crew made an appearance on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon and shared their experience of flying to the Moon. Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover, Christina Koch and Jeremy Hansen talked about the challenges they faced on the mission and the awe-inspiring moments they had in space. The crew also shared emotional moments, primarily naming a crater on the Moon after Wiseman's late wife, Carroll. As Fallon shared a photo of Wiseman looking out the window of Orion, and with a complete Earth visible, the astronaut revealed that by the third day, they had started calling their home planet, tiny Earth. Wiseman said, "Koch was looking out the window and called me over, and said, 'you should look at this'. I looked out and saw Earth." He added that the planet looked so small from far off in space that soon they started calling it tiny Earth. For most astronauts, such a moment has often been described as a moment of realisation, also known as the Overview Effect. Also Read: Artemis II astronaut recalls the moment that gives him chills — ‘and then it was...’ The crew admitted that out of everything that was happening, what stood out the most was the views. Glover said the views really got to them. "You could be eating, brushing, or getting ready for bed, and then you look out the window, and you see that Earth out there, it was amazing to see." They also talked about the challenged of being locked in the Orion, their spacecraft, for 10 days. Glover said it was like one minivan, as the crew put on a visual display of how chaotic it got. The Artemis II astronauts also saw the far side of the moon, catching views that no one had ever seen before. Hansen explained that before they actually got to the Moon, they started seeing parts that looked weird. This is when they realised they were looking at the far side. Also Read: Trump meets Artemis II crew, jokes about going to space as NASA eyes 2028 Moon landing

<p>Artemis 2 astronauts on Jimmy Fallon: The crew of the iconic NASA mission came on the Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon and talked abot some of the best moments they had in space, besides sharing the challenges.</p>

Artemis 2 crew on Fallon show: Tiny Earth, 6 miles per second fireball and other things they said

<p>US President Donald Trump hosted the crew of the lunar flyby mission Artemis II in the Oval Office on Wednesday, April 29. Four astronauts, Commander Reid Wiseman, Pilot Victor Glover and Mission Specialists Christina Koch and Jeremy Hansen joined the US President in celebrating the success of this mission. During the meeting attention Trump praised the “courage” of the crew and simultaneously enquired about the US President's chances of space travelling.&nbsp;</p><p>“We’re very proud of these people. They have unbelievable courage, unbelievable a lot of other things too,” praising the astronauts, then immediately praising himself, “To get in there, you have to be very smart, have to do a lot of things physically good. So I would have had no trouble making it; I’m physically very, very good. Maybe a little bit of a problem. We’ll have to try it.”</p><p>Trump then asked the NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman, “Is a president allowed to go up in one of these missions?” He responded, “We can get working on that, Mr President.”</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-opec-plus-uae-exit-oil-price-impact-1777466500634"><strong>Russia backs OPEC+ stability after UAE exit, warns of oil price volatility</strong></a></p><p>When asked whether he thought America would send another astronaut to walk on the moon, the President expressed optimism. "Well, we have a shot at it. I mean, we don't like to say definitely, because then you say, 'Oh, we failed. We failed,' because we're I think we could say we're ahead of schedule. So we have a — we have a good shot. We've authorised it. And I think with this team, and you know, with Jared, who has done such an amazing job at NASA, I think we have a good shot,” Trump said.</p><p>NASA Administrator Jared Issacman, "We're going to launch Artemis III in 2027. We'll protect for up to two opportunities in 2028 to return astronauts to the surface."</p><p>Artemis II launched on April 1 and returned to Earth on April 10. They went on an epic journey around the moon and back. They were the first people to leave Earth orbit since the Apollo 17 astronauts in 1972, and they got farther from their home planet than anyone ever has before, breaking the record set by Apollo 13 in 1970.</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Trump meets with Artemis II crew<br><br>‘Is a president allowed to go up in one of these missions?’<br><br>NASA chief: &#39;we can get working on that, Mr. President&#39; <a href="https://t.co/9ygJfLRiKA">pic.twitter.com/9ygJfLRiKA</a></p>&mdash; RT (@RT_com) <a href="https://twitter.com/RT_com/status/2049556152157901186?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 29, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

US President Donald Trump hosts Artemis II astronauts at the Oval Office, praises their courage and jokes about space travel as NASA targets a 2028 Moon mission.

US President Donald Trump hosted the crew of the lunar flyby mission Artemis II in the Oval Office on Wednesday, April 29. Four astronauts, Commander Reid Wiseman, Pilot Victor Glover and Mission Specialists Christina Koch and Jeremy Hansen joined the US President in celebrating the success of this mission. During the meeting attention Trump praised the “courage” of the crew and simultaneously enquired about the US President's chances of space travelling. “We’re very proud of these people. They have unbelievable courage, unbelievable a lot of other things too,” praising the astronauts, then immediately praising himself, “To get in there, you have to be very smart, have to do a lot of things physically good. So I would have had no trouble making it; I’m physically very, very good. Maybe a little bit of a problem. We’ll have to try it.” Trump then asked the NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman, “Is a president allowed to go up in one of these missions?” He responded, “We can get working on that, Mr President.” Also Read: Russia backs OPEC+ stability after UAE exit, warns of oil price volatility When asked whether he thought America would send another astronaut to walk on the moon, the President expressed optimism. "Well, we have a shot at it. I mean, we don't like to say definitely, because then you say, 'Oh, we failed. We failed,' because we're I think we could say we're ahead of schedule. So we have a — we have a good shot. We've authorised it. And I think with this team, and you know, with Jared, who has done such an amazing job at NASA, I think we have a good shot,” Trump said. NASA Administrator Jared Issacman, "We're going to launch Artemis III in 2027. We'll protect for up to two opportunities in 2028 to return astronauts to the surface." Artemis II launched on April 1 and returned to Earth on April 10. They went on an epic journey around the moon and back. They were the first people to leave Earth orbit since the Apollo 17 astronauts in 1972, and they got farther from their home planet than anyone ever has before, breaking the record set by Apollo 13 in 1970.

<p>US President Donald Trump hosts Artemis II astronauts at the Oval Office, praises their courage and jokes about space travel as NASA targets a 2028 Moon mission.</p>

Trump meets Artemis II crew, jokes about going to space as NASA eyes 2028 Moon landing

Donald Trump has claimed credit for the Artemis mission, which saw four astronauts fly to the Moon and back in over 50 years. He also said in an interview that NASA was closed in 2017. He has once again lied through his teeth.

Trump claims credit for Artemis program, says NASA was closed in 2017 - They are blatant lies

<p>Artemis II astronauts witnessed a humbling moment when Earth vanished from their sight when Orion went behind the Moon. They could no longer see their home planet. Reflecting on that moment, mission commander Reid Wiseman said at a live conference from the spacecraft last week. He said, just thinking about it is making his palms sweat and giving him chills. "It is amazing to watch your home planet disappear behind the moon. You can see the atmosphere. You can see the terrain on the moon projected across the Earth … it was just an unbelievable sight … and then it was gone. It was out of sight," he added. At that moment, not only could the four astronauts not see Earth, but they also could not talk to anyone on the ground on Earth for 31 minutes. All communication was cut off when Orion went behind the Moon. At this moment, they saw Earth set. Together, the visual and audio gap led the crew to have an awakening of their own - That it is a "true gift" that no human on Earth has gone through what they just did. "Human minds shouldn't have to go through what these just went through," Wiseman said.</p><p>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/artemis-ii-nasa-shares-video-compilation-of-far-side-of-the-moon-an-eclipse-and-a-stunning-eartset-1775617095715"><strong>'Not out of light...': NASA shares video compilation of far side of the Moon, riddled with pockmarks</strong></a></p><h2><strong>Artemis Earthset and Earthrise photos</strong></h2><p>The Earthset photo that Orion took at this moment is truly an iconic image. It is being compared to the Earthrise photo taken by the Apollo 8 mission on Christmas Eve 1968. This was the time when three humans went around the Moon for the first time. The Apollo photo was taken by pilot Bill Anders and was a chance encounter. Meanwhile, Artemis II Earthset was planned. They also took an Earthrise photo later, but seeing their planet setting in the vast expanse of space was what truly affected the astronauts. "We shared maple cookies that Jeremy had brought. We took about three or four minutes as a crew to reflect on where we were — and then it was right back into the science," he added.</p><p>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/artemis-ii-can-help-india-boost-its-own-space-sector-experts-say-1775725934225"><strong>Artemis II can help India boost its own space sector, experts say</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Artemis II returned humans to the Moon after over 50 years. The historic mission is a prelude to the human landings planned for 2028. Astronauts Wiseman, Christina Koch, Victor Glover and Jeremy Hansen saw the far side of the Moon and even named a crater after Wiseman's late wife, Carroll. They became the first humans to travel to the farthest point in space as Orion flew 7,500 kilometres farther from the far side of the Moon.</p>

Artemis II astronauts witnessed the most mind-blowing moment when their spacecraft went behind the Moon. The mission commander recalled the moment, saying just thinking about it was enough to give him chills.  

Artemis II astronauts witnessed a humbling moment when Earth vanished from their sight when Orion went behind the Moon. They could no longer see their home planet. Reflecting on that moment, mission commander Reid Wiseman said at a live conference from the spacecraft last week. He said, just thinking about it is making his palms sweat and giving him chills. "It is amazing to watch your home planet disappear behind the moon. You can see the atmosphere. You can see the terrain on the moon projected across the Earth … it was just an unbelievable sight … and then it was gone. It was out of sight," he added. At that moment, not only could the four astronauts not see Earth, but they also could not talk to anyone on the ground on Earth for 31 minutes. All communication was cut off when Orion went behind the Moon. At this moment, they saw Earth set. Together, the visual and audio gap led the crew to have an awakening of their own - That it is a "true gift" that no human on Earth has gone through what they just did. "Human minds shouldn't have to go through what these just went through," Wiseman said. Also Read: 'Not out of light...': NASA shares video compilation of far side of the Moon, riddled with pockmarks Artemis Earthset and Earthrise photos The Earthset photo that Orion took at this moment is truly an iconic image. It is being compared to the Earthrise photo taken by the Apollo 8 mission on Christmas Eve 1968. This was the time when three humans went around the Moon for the first time. The Apollo photo was taken by pilot Bill Anders and was a chance encounter. Meanwhile, Artemis II Earthset was planned. They also took an Earthrise photo later, but seeing their planet setting in the vast expanse of space was what truly affected the astronauts. "We shared maple cookies that Jeremy had brought. We took about three or four minutes as a crew to reflect on where we were — and then it was right back into the science," he added. Also Read: Artemis II can help India boost its own space sector, experts say Artemis II returned humans to the Moon after over 50 years. The historic mission is a prelude to the human landings planned for 2028. Astronauts Wiseman, Christina Koch, Victor Glover and Jeremy Hansen saw the far side of the Moon and even named a crater after Wiseman's late wife, Carroll. They became the first humans to travel to the farthest point in space as Orion flew 7,500 kilometres farther from the far side of the Moon.

<p>Artemis II astronauts witnessed the most mind-blowing moment when their spacecraft went behind the Moon. The mission commander recalled the moment, saying just thinking about it was enough to give him chills. &nbsp;</p>

Artemis II astronaut recalls the moment that gives him chills — 'and then it was...'

NASA Artemis II mission marks a historic Moon flyby with record distance, ‘Earthset’ image, diverse crew and key milestones in deep space exploration

NASA Artemis II mission: ‘Earthset’, record distance and 6 big takeaways from historic Moon flyby

Nine days, one hour, 31 minutes — history made at every turn: Artemis II just rewrote space history, from record-breaking distance to historic firsts by NASA astronauts, this mission pushed human spaceflight further than ever before.

What made this journey truly historic? Scroll down.

Out of this world: The records NASA's Artemis II broke on its way to the moon and back | In Pics

NASA’s Orion spacecraft has successfully completed its mission as it splashed down in the Pacific Ocean, marking a safe return for the crew after the Artemis II flight. The landing signals a major milestone in deep-space exploration efforts led by NASA. Recovery teams quickly moved in to retrieve the capsule as the mission paves the way for future lunar and Mars exploration programs.


Artemis II Splashdown: NASA's Moon Mission Carrying Four Astronauts Return Home

Artemis II Splashdown: US President Trump Lauds Artemis II Crew, 'Could Not Be More Proud'

Artemis II splashed down in the Pacific Ocean on the evening of April 10 (April 11 morning in India). During the moon mission, the astronauts and Orion took some beautiful photos of Earth and the Moon. These include new shots of the far side of the Moon and Earth.

Artemis II photos: Orion and astronauts return seen from space station

Artemis II Astronauts Splash Down Into Pacific Ocean

BREAKING: Artemis II Orion Capsule Splashes Down Safely In Pacific Ocean

<p><strong>Artemis II returns to Earth:&nbsp;</strong>Four astronauts touched down safely in the Pacific Ocean on Friday (Apr 10), as NASA successfully executed a historic moon mission, the first of its kind in more than half a century. The Orion capsule hit the water off the California coast near San Diego right on schedule, capping a 10-day mission that began with a launch from Florida on April 1. Mission commander Reid Wiseman confirmed the crew - Christina Koch, Victor Glover, Jeremy Hansen and Reid Wiseman - &nbsp;was doing well almost immediately after the nail-biting communications blackout that comes with every high-speed atmospheric re-entry. "Houston. Integrity. We have you loud and clear," he said. Moments later, he reported the crew was "stable" and "green."</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/artemis-ii-astronauts-stuck-pooping-in-special-bags-after-23-million-toilet-gets-clogged-1775713143337"><strong>Artemis II: Astronauts stuck using 'special bags' as $23 million toilet gets clogged</strong></a></p><h2><strong>Astronauts in great condition</strong></h2><p>"We have you loud and clear," mission commander Wiseman said following a communications check. "What a journey," he added. "We are stable." Rob Navias, the NASA public affairs officer who narrated the Artemis II crew's return on the agency's livestream, reported that they were "in great condition".</p><p>"This was a textbook entry and a textbook touchdown," he noted.</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fact-check-did-macron-post-a-video-of-jeffrey-epstein-kissing-melania-trump-truth-behind-the-viral-clip-1775806317213"><strong>FACT CHECK: Did Macron post a video of Jeffrey Epstein kissing Melania Trump? Truth behind the viral clip</strong></a></p><h2><strong>Crucial heat shield passes a make‑or‑break test</strong></h2><p>However, the touchdown wasn't free of nerve-racking moments. The capsule hit peak speeds exceeding 30 times the speed of sound during re-entry, with temperatures climbing to roughly half that of the Sun's surface. These conditions put enormous stress on the heat shield that protects everyone inside.</p><p>According to reports, that shield had been a source of genuine concern. During the uncrewed Artemis I test flight in 2022, it eroded in ways nobody had anticipated, drawing uncomfortable comparisons to the Challenger and Columbia space shuttle disasters of 1986 and 2003, respectively, when astronauts died after warning signs were set aside. This time, NASA adjusted the re-entry trajectory, keeping it steeper and shorter to reduce the risk. It worked.</p><h2><strong>Record-breaking feats by the Artemis II crew</strong></h2><p>The mission itself was historic by almost any measure. Wiseman, Christina Koch, Victor Glover and Canadian astronaut Jeremy Hansen flew further from Earth than any humans in history, reaching 252,756 miles — surpassing the record set during the Apollo program. Glover became the first person of colour to travel around the Moon. Koch was the first woman. Hansen was the first non-American.</p><p>During the voyage, the crew witnessed a solar eclipse from deep space, photographed meteorite strikes on the lunar surface that left scientists back on Earth stunned, and amassed thousands of images that circulated widely online throughout the mission.</p>

NASA pulls off its first crewed Moon mission in decades. The Artemis II crew safely splashed down after a historic 10-day journey, marking a major milestone for NASA. All you need to know.

Artemis II returns to Earth: Four astronauts touched down safely in the Pacific Ocean on Friday (Apr 10), as NASA successfully executed a historic moon mission, the first of its kind in more than half a century. The Orion capsule hit the water off the California coast near San Diego right on schedule, capping a 10-day mission that began with a launch from Florida on April 1. Mission commander Reid Wiseman confirmed the crew - Christina Koch, Victor Glover, Jeremy Hansen and Reid Wiseman - was doing well almost immediately after the nail-biting communications blackout that comes with every high-speed atmospheric re-entry. "Houston. Integrity. We have you loud and clear," he said. Moments later, he reported the crew was "stable" and "green." Also read | Artemis II: Astronauts stuck using 'special bags' as $23 million toilet gets clogged Astronauts in great condition "We have you loud and clear," mission commander Wiseman said following a communications check. "What a journey," he added. "We are stable." Rob Navias, the NASA public affairs officer who narrated the Artemis II crew's return on the agency's livestream, reported that they were "in great condition". "This was a textbook entry and a textbook touchdown," he noted. Also read | FACT CHECK: Did Macron post a video of Jeffrey Epstein kissing Melania Trump? Truth behind the viral clip Crucial heat shield passes a make‑or‑break test However, the touchdown wasn't free of nerve-racking moments. The capsule hit peak speeds exceeding 30 times the speed of sound during re-entry, with temperatures climbing to roughly half that of the Sun's surface. These conditions put enormous stress on the heat shield that protects everyone inside. According to reports, that shield had been a source of genuine concern. During the uncrewed Artemis I test flight in 2022, it eroded in ways nobody had anticipated, drawing uncomfortable comparisons to the Challenger and Columbia space shuttle disasters of 1986 and 2003, respectively, when astronauts died after warning signs were set aside. This time, NASA adjusted the re-entry trajectory, keeping it steeper and shorter to reduce the risk. It worked. Record-breaking feats by the Artemis II crew The mission itself was historic by almost any measure. Wiseman, Christina Koch, Victor Glover and Canadian astronaut Jeremy Hansen flew further from Earth than any humans in history, reaching 252,756 miles — surpassing the record set during the Apollo program. Glover became the first person of colour to travel around the Moon. Koch was the first woman. Hansen was the first non-American. During the voyage, the crew witnessed a solar eclipse from deep space, photographed meteorite strikes on the lunar surface that left scientists back on Earth stunned, and amassed thousands of images that circulated widely online throughout the mission.

<p>NASA pulls off its first crewed Moon mission in decades. The Artemis II crew safely splashed down after a historic 10-day journey, marking a major milestone for NASA. All you need to know.</p>

'What a journey': Artemis II astronauts splash down in the Pacific Ocean after record-breaking moon mission

The Artemis II astronauts conducted a historic lunar flyby, gathered invaluable data and took in unprecedented Moon views, but one of the most crucial moments of their 10-day mission is still to come: Fiery splashdown. The stakes are particularly high given concerns that arose during Artemis I, a 2022 uncrewed test flight to the Moon and back that saw the Orion heat shield erode in unexpected ways.


Moon Mission | The Artemis II Fiery Return

Artemis II astronauts can feel several physical problems after landing on Earth. Microgravity changes a few things in the human body since weightlessness causes changes in blood movement, and certain parts have no role to play in space.  

Artemis II astronauts and the toll of gravity: Immediate health challenges they face on Earth

Artemis II return and splashdown: The crew is set to return on April 10. They will make a fireball entry through the Earth's atmosphere as the temperatures on the outside reach over 2,700 degrees Celsius. The Artemis II return time and where to livestream. 

Artemis II returns: What time is the splashdown and how to watch live in India

NASA’s Artemis II astronauts have crossed the halfway point on their journey back to Earth after completing a historic crewed flyby around the Moon. The mission marks a major milestone in NASA’s deep-space exploration program and is a key step toward future human landings under the Artemis campaign.


NASA Artemis II Astronauts Halfway Back to Earth 

The NASA Artemis II crew is entering the most critical phase of its mission as astronauts prepare for the final leg of their journey around the Moon and back to Earth. Mission controllers are closely monitoring spacecraft systems, trajectory adjustments, and life-support conditions as the spacecraft approaches re-entry operations.


NASA: Artemis 2 Crew Faces Most Critical Phase of the Moon Mission

<p>NASA’s Artemis II could greatly benefit India, according to experts. Even though India is not directly involved in the moon mission, it is part of the Artemis Accords, a framework with a list of principles for lunar exploration, including cooperation, interoperability and data sharing. Kaushik Ray, a veteran defence and space expert, told SCMP that since India is a signatory to the Artemis Accords, the success of Artemis II “strengthens a framework in which India is now a stakeholder.” India can use this position to access the Artemis framework and develop systems compatible with global lunar infrastructure. This means it would not have to work on them entirely on its own and would have the support of NASA and other signatories. The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is making great strides in the field of space exploration. In 2023, Chandrayaan-3 became the world’s first to achieve a soft landing near the lunar south pole. ISRO is now aiming to launch its first crewed space flight programme, called Gaganyaan. Under it, Indian astronauts will be launched into a 400-km low-earth orbit for a three-day mission. It is currently scheduled for 2027.</p><p>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/artemis-ii-nasa-shares-video-compilation-of-far-side-of-the-moon-an-eclipse-and-a-stunning-eartset-1775617095715"><strong>'Not out of light...': NASA shares video compilation of far side of the Moon, riddled with pockmarks</strong></a></p><h2><strong>India's future space missions</strong></h2><p>Ray said that “the experience and data” gathered by the Artemis II mission will prove “highly relevant for India’s Chandrayaan and Gaganyaan programmes”. Besides, it would also immensely help “ISRO’s future ambitions in long-duration human space flight.” Its position will allow it to enter “collaborative missions, shared research, and participation in lunar exploration initiatives”, he added. Chandrayaan-4 is also in the works, which aims to gather samples from the lunar surface and return them to Earth around 2028. ISRO is also working with the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency on LUPEX, a joint project to explore the Moon’s South Pole.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>After the Indian space sector was opened to private companies in 2023, it is projected to expand to a whopping US$44 billion annually by 2033, a fivefold increase from current figures, according to a joint report released by the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry. ISRO has a budget of US$1.6 billion for the 2026-2027 financial year. But the private sector could add immensely to its potential. The Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre was formed in 2020, and today the country has more than 400 space startups focusing on satellite manufacturing to launch vehicles.<br>&nbsp;</p>

The Artemis II mission could help India grow its space sector and work on new systems that can work for future moon programs. India is a signatory to the Artemis Accords and this lets it work in collaboration with other countries.

NASA’s Artemis II could greatly benefit India, according to experts. Even though India is not directly involved in the moon mission, it is part of the Artemis Accords, a framework with a list of principles for lunar exploration, including cooperation, interoperability and data sharing. Kaushik Ray, a veteran defence and space expert, told SCMP that since India is a signatory to the Artemis Accords, the success of Artemis II “strengthens a framework in which India is now a stakeholder.” India can use this position to access the Artemis framework and develop systems compatible with global lunar infrastructure. This means it would not have to work on them entirely on its own and would have the support of NASA and other signatories. The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is making great strides in the field of space exploration. In 2023, Chandrayaan-3 became the world’s first to achieve a soft landing near the lunar south pole. ISRO is now aiming to launch its first crewed space flight programme, called Gaganyaan. Under it, Indian astronauts will be launched into a 400-km low-earth orbit for a three-day mission. It is currently scheduled for 2027. Also Read: 'Not out of light...': NASA shares video compilation of far side of the Moon, riddled with pockmarks India's future space missions Ray said that “the experience and data” gathered by the Artemis II mission will prove “highly relevant for India’s Chandrayaan and Gaganyaan programmes”. Besides, it would also immensely help “ISRO’s future ambitions in long-duration human space flight.” Its position will allow it to enter “collaborative missions, shared research, and participation in lunar exploration initiatives”, he added. Chandrayaan-4 is also in the works, which aims to gather samples from the lunar surface and return them to Earth around 2028. ISRO is also working with the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency on LUPEX, a joint project to explore the Moon’s South Pole. After the Indian space sector was opened to private companies in 2023, it is projected to expand to a whopping US$44 billion annually by 2033, a fivefold increase from current figures, according to a joint report released by the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry. ISRO has a budget of US$1.6 billion for the 2026-2027 financial year. But the private sector could add immensely to its potential. The Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre was formed in 2020, and today the country has more than 400 space startups focusing on satellite manufacturing to launch vehicles.

<p>The Artemis II mission could help India grow its space sector and work on new systems that can work for future moon programs. India is a signatory to the Artemis Accords and this lets it work in collaboration with other countries.</p>

Artemis II can help India boost its own space sector, experts say

Four astronauts. One broken toilet. No way to flush: The Artemis II crew made it around the Moon just fine. Getting home with a working bathroom is proving harder. All we know.

Artemis II: Astronauts stuck using 'special bags' as $23 million toilet gets clogged

Artemis II astronaut Reid Wiseman was already working with NASA when he received a fortune cookie in 2017 that talked about visiting a strange place that would offer a new perspective. AS he flew to the Moon, this fortune has come true for him.

For one Artemis II astronaut, a nine-year-old prophecy has come true

Return of Artemis II on April 10 will be a risky affair because of the heating issues with the spacecraft. It will tumble down at enormous speeds, causing temperatures outside the capsule to rise. Here is how the Orion re-entry will go down.

At 40,000kmh and 2,700 degrees Celsius, Artemis II re-entry will be the scariest phase of the mission yet

Artemis II has begun its return journey to Earth after completing a historic flyby of the Moon, marking a major milestone in NASA’s effort to send astronauts back to deep space for the first time in decades. The crewed mission tested critical systems needed for future lunar landings under the Artemis program, paving the way for upcoming missions that aim to return humans to the lunar surface and eventually support future journeys to Mars. 


Artemis II Begins Return Trip to Earth After Historic Moon Flyby

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Artemis II astronaut retires after just one trip to space, a user asks, 'What do you guys see up there?'

NASA dumps 12,217 new photos from Artemis II mission. Here are some of them

Artemis 2 crew on Jimmy Fallon: Tiny Earth, 6mps fireball and more excerpts

Trump meets Artemis II crew, jokes about going to space

Trump claims credit for Artemis, says NASA was closed in 2017 - He is wrong

Artemis II astronaut recalls moment that gives him chills — 'and then it was...'

NASA Artemis II: Here are the top 6 takeaways from the historic Moon mission

Out of this world: The records Artemis II broke on its way to the moon and back