<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.

<p>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.</p>

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.

<p>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.</p>

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

<p>NASA’s Artemis II mission made history with diversity, distance records, and stunning lunar moments in humanity’s first Moon flyby in more than 50 years</p>

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.

<p>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.</p><p>What made this journey truly historic? Scroll down.</p>

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

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

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.

<p>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.</p>

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

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.  

<p>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. &nbsp;</p>

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. 

<p>Artemis II return and splashdown time in India: 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 can also be livestreamed on Netflix.</p>

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

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.

<p>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.</p>

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.

<p>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.</p>

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.

<p>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.</p>

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

<p>NASA has shared a video of the far side of the Moon captured by Artemis II astronauts when they swung around it on day 6 of the mission. The stunning visuals show a never-before-seen side of the Moon that looks entirely different from what humans are used to seeing from Earth. The video shared on April 8 starts with the eclipse they saw after emerging from behind it. NASA captioned it, "It's not just a phase. Artemis II astronauts captured these views of the Moon as the Orion spacecraft flew around the far side of the Moon on April 6, 2026." The lunar surface is riddled with pockmarks and a few bright spots that can be seen in the video. It is much paler than the near side of the Moon. It shows thousands of craters, revealing the shots it has endured from cosmic rocks over billions of years. One particular visual shows the edge of our lunar satellite with a crescent blue Earth right behind it. Another photo for the ages is of Earth setting behind the Moon. It is a nod to the Apollo photo showing Earth rising.</p><h2><strong>What astronauts saw on the Moon - Eclipse, Orientale and train of planets</strong></h2><p>The visuals captured by Orion and the astronauts have captivated the world. Reacting to the visuals, netizens are expressing admiration for a world they see every day, yet remains a mystery. A user commented, "Far side of the Moon with no Earth glow in the frame. That's the view that makes every launch feel worth it—pure, unfiltered space staring back." The far side has always been assumed to be the dark side because it isn't illuminated by the Sun. But the photos show that it is anything but dark. Talking about the bright far side of the Moon, a user wrote, "Funny how we called it the 'dark side' all these years, turns out it was just out of sight, not out of light."</p><p>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/-love-you-to-the-moon-and-back-artemis-ii-crew-name-moon-crater-after-astronaut-s-wife-who-died-of-cancer-1775561481843"><strong>'Love you to the moon': Emotions run high as Artemis II crew name Moon crater after astronaut's wife who died of cancer</strong></a></p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">It&#39;s not just a phase 🌕 <br><br>Artemis II astronauts captured these views of the Moon as the Orion spacecraft flew around the far side of the Moon on April 6, 2026. <a href="https://t.co/lT7245Gp28">pic.twitter.com/lT7245Gp28</a></p>&mdash; NASA (@NASA) <a href="https://twitter.com/NASA/status/2041690396586090592?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 8, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2><strong>NASA shared eclipse and Earthset photos from Artemis II</strong></h2><p>NASA also shared a photo of the eclipse that the astronauts saw after coming out from behind the Moon. The Moon can be seen fully dark as it covers the Sun entirely, with the corona visible. Mission commander Reid Wiseman talked about it in a livestream from Orion. He said, "We saw sights, Orientale (basin), all this that not even Apollo saw. The best part was that we just came out of the eclipse and saw an entire dark moon right out the window." He added, "We could see the planet train line up and all of us commented how excited we are to watch this planet become a two planet species."<br>&nbsp;</p>

Artemis II photos and videos: NASA shared a 1-minute 40-second video of the views of the Moon captured by astronauts on Orion. The video compiles stunning shots of the far side of the Moon, an eclipse and an Earthset. 

NASA has shared a video of the far side of the Moon captured by Artemis II astronauts when they swung around it on day 6 of the mission. The stunning visuals show a never-before-seen side of the Moon that looks entirely different from what humans are used to seeing from Earth. The video shared on April 8 starts with the eclipse they saw after emerging from behind it. NASA captioned it, "It's not just a phase. Artemis II astronauts captured these views of the Moon as the Orion spacecraft flew around the far side of the Moon on April 6, 2026." The lunar surface is riddled with pockmarks and a few bright spots that can be seen in the video. It is much paler than the near side of the Moon. It shows thousands of craters, revealing the shots it has endured from cosmic rocks over billions of years. One particular visual shows the edge of our lunar satellite with a crescent blue Earth right behind it. Another photo for the ages is of Earth setting behind the Moon. It is a nod to the Apollo photo showing Earth rising. What astronauts saw on the Moon - Eclipse, Orientale and train of planets The visuals captured by Orion and the astronauts have captivated the world. Reacting to the visuals, netizens are expressing admiration for a world they see every day, yet remains a mystery. A user commented, "Far side of the Moon with no Earth glow in the frame. That's the view that makes every launch feel worth it—pure, unfiltered space staring back." The far side has always been assumed to be the dark side because it isn't illuminated by the Sun. But the photos show that it is anything but dark. Talking about the bright far side of the Moon, a user wrote, "Funny how we called it the 'dark side' all these years, turns out it was just out of sight, not out of light." Also Read: 'Love you to the moon': Emotions run high as Artemis II crew name Moon crater after astronaut's wife who died of cancer

<p>Artemis II photos and videos: NASA shared a 1-minute 40-second video of the views of the Moon captured by astronauts on Orion. The video compiles beautiful shots of the far side of the Moon, an eclipse and an Earthset.&nbsp;</p>

'Not out of light...': NASA shares video compilation of far side of the Moon, riddled with pockmarks

<p>Artemis II astronauts identified two unnamed craters on the Moon during their historic flyby and decided to name one of them after mission commander Reid Wiseman's late wife, Carroll. Speaking with mission control on Earth, Canadian astronaut Jeremy Hansen said that they had seen a "bright spot" on the Moon and they would like to name it after Wiseman's wife. The astronaut lost her to cancer in 2020 and is a single dad raising two daughters. "Our science team helped us out with a couple of relatively fresh craters on the moon that have not been previously named," Hansen said. He goes on to say that they would like to "propose a couple of potential names". "A number of years ago, we started this journey in our close-knit astronaut family, and we lost a loved one. Her name was Carroll. The spouse of Reid. The mother of Katie and Ellie. And we would like to call it Carroll," he says. Hansen added that the crater can also be seen from Earth as it moves during its transit. “It's a bright spot on the moon.”</p><h2><strong>A warm hug in space</strong></h2><p>Wiseman wipes his tears and goes on to hug Hansen as the other two also join in the embrace. They named the other crater Integrity, after their spacecraft. The video was shared by a spaceflight photographer and content manager, Jenny Hautmann, and quickly gained two million views. She also shared a photo of Wiseman with his wife from 2014, showing their daughters as well. The crater is located on the boundary of the near side and the far side of the Moon.</p><p>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/artemis-ii-astronaut-a-single-dad-to-two-girls-reveals-he-has-told-them-what-to-do-if-he-dies-1775018063808"><strong>Artemis II astronaut, a single dad to two girls, reveals what he told them before leaving for the Moon</strong></a></p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">The Artemis II crew named a lunar crater after Commander Reid Wiseman&#39;s late wife, Carroll. What a beautiful and touching moment.<br><br>I&#39;m not crying, you&#39;re crying 🤧 <a href="https://t.co/3D1qgxK0jB">pic.twitter.com/3D1qgxK0jB</a></p>&mdash; Jenny Hautmann (@JennyHPhoto) <a href="https://twitter.com/JennyHPhoto/status/2041217914842304713?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 6, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2><strong>Netizens get emotional after a Moon crater was named after Wiseman's late wife</strong></h2><p>The post left netizens teary-eyed. One user wrote, "So this is what 'Love you to the moon and back' truly means." Another added, "How wonderful and appropriate to name a crater on the moon in honor of the wife of Commander Wiseman. &nbsp;Salute to Carroll Crater, a “bright spot on the moon.” &nbsp;That sounds just right." One wrote, "Carroll Crater. Has a 'ring' to it."</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>https://www.wionews.com/videos/artemis-ii-mission-trump-speaks-to-artemis-ii-crew-after-historic-moon-flyby-1775547915916/embed</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Wiseman's wife was a nurse in a newborn intensive care unit and passed away after a battle with cancer in 2020. He has two teen daughters, Ellie and Katherine, whom he has been raising as a single dad. Before leaving for the mission, Wiseman shared that he had explained everything to them about what to do if something went wrong. He added that they understand that it is a risky mission, "but they also know the importance of exploration and that humanity needs to push beyond the unknown."</p>

Artemis II astronauts shared an emotional moment in space when they decided to name a new crater on the Moon after Reid Wiseman's late wife. Carroll Crater is a bright spot on the Moon which can sometimes be seen from Earth.

Artemis II astronauts identified two unnamed craters on the Moon during their historic flyby and decided to name one of them after mission commander Reid Wiseman's late wife, Carroll. Speaking with mission control on Earth, Canadian astronaut Jeremy Hansen said that they had seen a "bright spot" on the Moon and they would like to name it after Wiseman's wife. The astronaut lost her to cancer in 2020 and is a single dad raising two daughters. "Our science team helped us out with a couple of relatively fresh craters on the moon that have not been previously named," Hansen said. He goes on to say that they would like to "propose a couple of potential names". "A number of years ago, we started this journey in our close-knit astronaut family, and we lost a loved one. Her name was Carroll. The spouse of Reid. The mother of Katie and Ellie. And we would like to call it Carroll," he says. Hansen added that the crater can also be seen from Earth as it moves during its transit. “It's a bright spot on the moon.” A warm hug in space Wiseman wipes his tears and goes on to hug Hansen as the other two also join in the embrace. They named the other crater Integrity, after their spacecraft. The video was shared by a spaceflight photographer and content manager, Jenny Hautmann, and quickly gained two million views. She also shared a photo of Wiseman with his wife from 2014, showing their daughters as well. The crater is located on the boundary of the near side and the far side of the Moon. Also Read: Artemis II astronaut, a single dad to two girls, reveals what he told them before leaving for the Moon

<p>Artemis II astronauts shared an emotional moment in space when they decided to name a new crater on the Moon after Reid Wiseman's late wife. Carroll Crater is a bright spot on the Moon which can sometimes be seen from Earth.</p>

'Love you to the moon': Emotions run high as Artemis II crew name Moon crater after astronaut's wife who died of cancer

Donald Trump spoke with Artemis II astronauts after their historic flyby of the Moon. The president said some things that left even the crew shocked. He used the occasion to praise his decisions about having Space Force and not closing down NASA.

<p>Donald Trump spoke with Artemis II astronauts after their historic flyby of the Moon. The president said some things that left even the crew shocked. He used the occasion to praise his decisions about having Space Force and not closing down NASA.</p>

'Are we going to close NASA' to Isaacman bromance: Trump's livestream with Artemis II astronauts

<p>Four astronauts aboard Artemis II have set a new record for the farthest distance traveled by humans in space. At 12:56 pm CDT on Monday, the crew reached 248,655 miles from Earth, surpassing the previous record held by Apollo 13. At its peak distance, the crew inside the Orion spacecraft will travel approximately 252,756 miles before beginning their journey back to Earth. Six days into the mission, NASA astronauts Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover, and Christina Koch, along with Canadian Space Agency astronaut Jeremy Hansen, continue capturing images of the Moon as they move farther away from Earth.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“At NASA, we dare to reach higher, explore farther, and achieve the impossible. That’s embodied perfectly by our Artemis II astronauts, Reid, Victor, Christina, and Jeremy. They are charting new frontiers for all humanity,” said Lori Glaze, acting associate administrator for Exploration Systems Development Mission Directorate. “Their dedication is about more than breaking records, it’s fueling our hope for a bold future. Their mission is carrying our promise to return to the Moon’s surface, this time to stay as we establish a Moon Base.”</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/-we-ll-see-you-on-the-other-side-nasa-loses-communication-with-artemis-ii-crew-1775515597084"><strong>'We will always choose Earth': Mission Control reconnects with Artemis II after 40-minute blackout as Orion heads back toward Earth</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The mission launched successfully on April 1 aboard NASA’s Space Launch System from Kennedy Space Center. After a series of orbital maneuvers, the spacecraft set its trajectory toward the Moon. Following the milestone, astronaut Jeremy Hansen shared an emotional message from space, “From the cabin of Integrity here, as we surpass the furthest distance humans have ever traveled from planet Earth, we do so in honoring the extraordinary efforts and feats of our predecessors in human space exploration. We will continue our journey even further into space before Mother Earth succeeds in pulling us back to everything that we hold dear. But we most importantly choose this moment to challenge this generation and the next to make sure this record is not long-lived.”</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>During the mission, the crew also proposed names for two lunar craters, one after their spacecraft, Integrity, and another in honor of Wiseman’s late wife, Carroll. These names will be submitted to the International Astronomical Union for approval. At their closest approach, the astronauts will come within about 4,067 miles of the Moon’s surface, becoming the first humans to directly observe parts of its far side in decades. They are also expected to witness a solar eclipse as the Moon passes in front of the Sun.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>NASA anticipates a temporary 40-minute communication blackout as the Moon blocks signals between the spacecraft and Earth via the Deep Space Network. Contact will resume once the spacecraft reemerges, reconnecting with mission control at Johnson Space Center. Throughout the flyby, onboard cameras and handheld devices will capture high-resolution images of the lunar surface, including areas never seen before by human eyes.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The data collected, from imagery to telemetry, will help shape future Artemis missions and plans for a sustained human presence on the Moon. The Artemis II crew is now more than halfway through its mission and is scheduled to splash down off the coast of San Diego on April 10. Recovery teams will transport the astronauts to the USS John P. Murtha for medical checks before returning them to NASA facilities. As part of the Artemis program, NASA aims to conduct increasingly complex missions, paving the way for long-term lunar exploration and eventual human missions to Mars.</p>

Artemis II leaves Apollo 13 behind, sets new human spaceflight record

Four astronauts aboard Artemis II have set a new record for the farthest distance traveled by humans in space. At 12:56 pm CDT on Monday, the crew reached 248,655 miles from Earth, surpassing the previous record held by Apollo 13. At its peak distance, the crew inside the Orion spacecraft will travel approximately 252,756 miles before beginning their journey back to Earth. Six days into the mission, NASA astronauts Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover, and Christina Koch, along with Canadian Space Agency astronaut Jeremy Hansen, continue capturing images of the Moon as they move farther away from Earth. “At NASA, we dare to reach higher, explore farther, and achieve the impossible. That’s embodied perfectly by our Artemis II astronauts, Reid, Victor, Christina, and Jeremy. They are charting new frontiers for all humanity,” said Lori Glaze, acting associate administrator for Exploration Systems Development Mission Directorate. “Their dedication is about more than breaking records, it’s fueling our hope for a bold future. Their mission is carrying our promise to return to the Moon’s surface, this time to stay as we establish a Moon Base.” Also Read: 'We will always choose Earth': Mission Control reconnects with Artemis II after 40-minute blackout as Orion heads back toward Earth The mission launched successfully on April 1 aboard NASA’s Space Launch System from Kennedy Space Center. After a series of orbital maneuvers, the spacecraft set its trajectory toward the Moon. Following the milestone, astronaut Jeremy Hansen shared an emotional message from space, “From the cabin of Integrity here, as we surpass the furthest distance humans have ever traveled from planet Earth, we do so in honoring the extraordinary efforts and feats of our predecessors in human space exploration. We will continue our journey even further into space before Mother Earth succeeds in pulling us back to everything that we hold dear. But we most importantly choose this moment to challenge this generation and the next to make sure this record is not long-lived.” During the mission, the crew also proposed names for two lunar craters, one after their spacecraft, Integrity, and another in honor of Wiseman’s late wife, Carroll. These names will be submitted to the International Astronomical Union for approval. At their closest approach, the astronauts will come within about 4,067 miles of the Moon’s surface, becoming the first humans to directly observe parts of its far side in decades. They are also expected to witness a solar eclipse as the Moon passes in front of the Sun. NASA anticipates a temporary 40-minute communication blackout as the Moon blocks signals between the spacecraft and Earth via the Deep Space Network. Contact will resume once the spacecraft reemerges, reconnecting with mission control at Johnson Space Center. Throughout the flyby, onboard cameras and handheld devices will capture high-resolution images of the lunar surface, including areas never seen before by human eyes. The data collected, from imagery to telemetry, will help shape future Artemis missions and plans for a sustained human presence on the Moon. The Artemis II crew is now more than halfway through its mission and is scheduled to splash down off the coast of San Diego on April 10. Recovery teams will transport the astronauts to the USS John P. Murtha for medical checks before returning them to NASA facilities. As part of the Artemis program, NASA aims to conduct increasingly complex missions, paving the way for long-term lunar exploration and eventual human missions to Mars.

<p>Artemis II astronauts break the record for farthest human spaceflight, surpassing Apollo 13 while advancing NASA’s plans for Moon and Mars missions</p>

<p>Astronauts aboard the Orion spacecraft have resumed communications with NASA’s Mission Control Center in Houston after emerging from behind the Moon. The anticipated communications blackout lasted approximately 40 minutes. With Orion now having completed its journey around the Moon, the spacecraft has officially begun its return trip to Earth. NASA astronaut Christina Koch shared her reflections following the blackout, commemorating the moment.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>She said, "It is so great to hear from Earth again,” Koch said. “To Asia, Africa, and Oceania, we are looking back at you. We hear you. You can look up and see the moon right now. We see you, too. When we burned this burn towards the moon, I said that we do not leave Earth. That is true. We will explore. We will build ships. We will visit again. We will construct science outposts. We will drive rovers, we will do radio astronomy, we will found companies. We will bolster industry, we will inspire. But ultimately, we will always choose Earth. We will always choose each other.”</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The crew witnessed Earthrise, the breathtaking view of Earth appearing over the Moon, echoing what Apollo astronauts saw in 1968. They also observed fleeting flashes from meteor impacts on the lunar surface and, during Earthrise, noticed dust hovering above the Moon’s edge, a mysterious phenomenon that scientists have yet to fully explain.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/artemis-ii-lunar-flyby-40-minute-silence-will-leave-astronauts-floating-with-no-contact-1775461075445"><strong>Artemis II 40-minute silence: When astronauts will be left floating in space with no contact</strong></a></p><h2>Artemis astronauts break space distance record</h2><p>The four astronauts on NASA's lunar flyby became the humans to travel the farthest from Earth on Monday, as they commenced the lunar observations central to their mission. The Artemis II crew has now broken the distance record set by the 1970 Apollo 13 mission and is expected to extend it by 4,105 miles (6,606 kilometers) when they reach the mission’s projected maximum distance of 252,760 miles (406,778 kilometers) from Earth later on Monday. "For all humanity, you're pushing beyond that frontier," said Jenni Gibbons at Houston's mission control.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/artemis-ii-loses-signal-nasa-crew-to-disappear-behind-moon-for-40-minutes-1775503756873/embed"><strong>https://www.wionews.com/videos/artemis-ii-loses-signal-nasa-crew-to-disappear-behind-moon-for-40-minutes-1775503756873/embed</strong></a></p>

'We will always choose Earth': Mission Control reconnects with Artemis II after 40-minute blackout as Orion heads back toward Earth

Astronauts aboard the Orion spacecraft have resumed communications with NASA’s Mission Control Center in Houston after emerging from behind the Moon. The anticipated communications blackout lasted approximately 40 minutes. With Orion now having completed its journey around the Moon, the spacecraft has officially begun its return trip to Earth. NASA astronaut Christina Koch shared her reflections following the blackout, commemorating the moment. She said, "It is so great to hear from Earth again,” Koch said. “To Asia, Africa, and Oceania, we are looking back at you. We hear you. You can look up and see the moon right now. We see you, too. When we burned this burn towards the moon, I said that we do not leave Earth. That is true. We will explore. We will build ships. We will visit again. We will construct science outposts. We will drive rovers, we will do radio astronomy, we will found companies. We will bolster industry, we will inspire. But ultimately, we will always choose Earth. We will always choose each other.” The crew witnessed Earthrise, the breathtaking view of Earth appearing over the Moon, echoing what Apollo astronauts saw in 1968. They also observed fleeting flashes from meteor impacts on the lunar surface and, during Earthrise, noticed dust hovering above the Moon’s edge, a mysterious phenomenon that scientists have yet to fully explain. Also Read: Artemis II 40-minute silence: When astronauts will be left floating in space with no contact Artemis astronauts break space distance record The four astronauts on NASA's lunar flyby became the humans to travel the farthest from Earth on Monday, as they commenced the lunar observations central to their mission. The Artemis II crew has now broken the distance record set by the 1970 Apollo 13 mission and is expected to extend it by 4,105 miles (6,606 kilometers) when they reach the mission’s projected maximum distance of 252,760 miles (406,778 kilometers) from Earth later on Monday. "For all humanity, you're pushing beyond that frontier," said Jenni Gibbons at Houston's mission control. https://www.wionews.com/videos/artemis-ii-loses-signal-nasa-crew-to-disappear-behind-moon-for-40-minutes-1775503756873/embed

<p>Artemis II astronauts reestablish contact after a 40-minute lunar blackout, with Christina Koch reflecting, “We will always choose Earth. We will always choose each other.”</p>

The Artemis II crew will be out of touch with mission control back on Earth for 40 minutes when Orion flies behind the far side of the Moon. It will be an isolating experience during which time the astronauts will be fully focused on observing the Moon. 

<p>The Artemis II crew will be out of touch with mission control back on Earth for 40 minutes when Orion flies behind the far side of the Moon. It will be an isolating experience during which time the astronauts will be fully focused on observing the Moon.&nbsp;</p>

Artemis II 40-minute silence: When astronauts will be left floating in space with no contact

NASA’s Artemis II mission is approaching the Moon, marking a historic step in humanity’s return to deep space exploration. While the crew continues to achieve key mission milestones aboard the Orion spacecraft, engineers are closely monitoring minor technical issues, including a reported toilet system glitch and communication checks from Mission Control.


Artemis II Nears Moon, Balances Milestones & Malfunctions, Toilet Glitch Reported 

NASA’s Artemis II mission continues its historic journey deeper into space as the Orion spacecraft edges closer to the Moon’s far side, marking a key milestone in humanity’s return to lunar exploration. In a parallel scientific effort, NASA has launched the Avatar Biology Test in deep space to study how living systems respond to long-duration spaceflight conditions. The findings are expected to support future crewed lunar missions and eventual human journeys to Mars.


Artemis II Edges Closer to Moon's Far Side | NASA Launches Avatar Biology Test in Deep Space 

NASA has successfully fired the main engine of the Artemis II Orion capsule, marking a critical milestone in the mission’s journey toward the Moon. The key engine burn helped place the spacecraft on a precise lunar trajectory, demonstrating the capsule’s propulsion performance and mission readiness.


US Space Agency Successfully Fires Artemis II Capsule Engine

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