Astronauts aboard Artemis II have successfully begun their historic journey to the Moon following a powerful launch by NASA. The mission marks the first crewed lunar voyage in more than 50 years, carrying four astronauts on a 10-day flight around the Moon aboard the Orion spacecraft launched by the Space Launch System. The mission is a major step toward returning humans to the lunar surface and advancing future deep-space exploration, including planned missions to Mars.


Astronauts Begin NASA Lunar Mission After Successful Blast-Off

In a fascinating mix of everyday technology and deep space exploration, NASA has approved the use of iPhones for astronauts aboard the Artemis II mission, a move that signals a new era in how space journeys are documented. Ahead of launch, NASA teams were seen integrating the smartphones into astronaut suits as the four-member crew prepared for their 10-day mission around the Moon. The spacecraft lifted off on Wednesday (April 1) aboard the Space Launch System from the Kennedy Space Center, marking a major milestone in humanity’s return to lunar exploration.<h2>iPhones in space</h2>The decision stems from a new policy introduced in 2026 by NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman, allowing astronauts to carry modern smartphones during missions. While these devices won’t be connected to any network, they will play a unique role, capturing personal moments and high-quality images during the historic lunar flyby. To ensure complete safety, all iPhones will remain on airplane mode, preventing any interference with spacecraft systems. In this configuration, the phones essentially function as standalone cameras and recording devices.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasa-launches-historic-artemis-ii-moon-mission-1775082791850">We're going around the Moon: NASA launches historic Artemis II mission</a><h2>What is NASA's Artemis II mission?</h2>Artemis II is NASA’s first crewed mission to the Moon in over five decades. Although it will not involve a landing, the mission is critical for testing systems that will support future lunar landings. The inclusion of iPhones reflects NASA’s broader effort to make space exploration more relatable. By equipping astronauts with familiar consumer technology, the agency aims to create more personal, immersive visuals for audiences on Earth.&nbsp;Experts say that modern smartphones now offer camera capabilities comparable to professional equipment, making them practical tools even in extreme environments. Their compact design and ease of use provide astronauts with an efficient way to document their journey.

Here's why NASA astronauts are carrying iPhones to the Moon on Artemis II

In a fascinating mix of everyday technology and deep space exploration, NASA has approved the use of iPhones for astronauts aboard the Artemis II mission, a move that signals a new era in how space journeys are documented. Ahead of launch, NASA teams were seen integrating the smartphones into astronaut suits as the four-member crew prepared for their 10-day mission around the Moon. The spacecraft lifted off on Wednesday (April 1) aboard the Space Launch System from the Kennedy Space Center, marking a major milestone in humanity’s return to lunar exploration. iPhones in space The decision stems from a new policy introduced in 2026 by NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman, allowing astronauts to carry modern smartphones during missions. While these devices won’t be connected to any network, they will play a unique role, capturing personal moments and high-quality images during the historic lunar flyby. To ensure complete safety, all iPhones will remain on airplane mode, preventing any interference with spacecraft systems. In this configuration, the phones essentially function as standalone cameras and recording devices. Also Read: We're going around the Moon: NASA launches historic Artemis II mission What is NASA's Artemis II mission? Artemis II is NASA’s first crewed mission to the Moon in over five decades. Although it will not involve a landing, the mission is critical for testing systems that will support future lunar landings. The inclusion of iPhones reflects NASA’s broader effort to make space exploration more relatable. By equipping astronauts with familiar consumer technology, the agency aims to create more personal, immersive visuals for audiences on Earth. Experts say that modern smartphones now offer camera capabilities comparable to professional equipment, making them practical tools even in extreme environments. Their compact design and ease of use provide astronauts with an efficient way to document their journey.

NASA allows astronauts to carry iPhones on Artemis II to capture personal moments in space, making lunar missions more relatable to people on Earth

By beaming near-infrared lasers across 240,000 miles of space to specialized ground stations on Earth, this high-speed "deep space internet" will transmit massive amounts of scientific data and deliver unprecedented, cinematic live streams of the lunar surface directly to global audiences.

By beaming near-infrared lasers across 240,000 miles of space to specialized ground stations on Earth, this high-speed “deep space internet” will transmit massive amounts of scientific data and deliver unprecedented, cinematic live streams of the lunar surface directly to global audiences.

'Space lasers and 4K video': How NASA's Artemis II will livestream the Moon in 4K

NASA's historic Artemis II mission has successfully lifted off from the Kennedy Space Center, sending a diverse crew of four astronauts on a record-breaking, 10-day journey around the Moon.

NASA’s historic Artemis II mission has successfully lifted off from the Kennedy Space Center, sending a diverse crew of four astronauts on a record-breaking, 10-day journey around the Moon.<h3>&nbsp;</h3>

Journey to the Moon begins! NASA Artemis 2 launches with 4 astronauts for a round trip of the Moon

NASA's Artemis 2 to launch four astronauts around the Moon on April 1, yes, April Fools' Day. Officials are dead serious, and the countdown is already ticking toward a historic evening liftoff.

NASA's Artemis 2 to launch four astronauts around the Moon on April 1, yes, April Fools' Day. Officials are dead serious, and the countdown is already ticking toward a historic evening liftoff.

Absolutely not a joke! NASA is launching to the Moon on April Fools' Day

NASA's Artemis II mission is ready for a historic lunar flyby. With fuel issues resolved, four elite astronauts prepare to travel further into deep space than ever before, marking a new era of lunar exploration and diversity.

NASA's Artemis II mission is ready for a historic lunar flyby. With fuel issues resolved, four elite astronauts prepare to travel further into deep space than ever before, marking a new era of lunar exploration and diversity.

'NASA's Artemis II ready for launch': Humanity’s bold leap back to the Moon after 50 years

NASA's Artemis II launch mission is ready for takeoff. Four astronauts are preparing to script history, becoming the first humans to reach the Moon in nearly 60 years. Crew members include NASA astronaut Reid Wiseman (mission commander), Victor Glover (pilot), Christina Koch (mission specialist) and Canadian Space Agency astronaut Jeremy Hansen (mission specialist). As excited as they are for the launch, they are also aware that the mission comes with risks. One astronaut has revealed that he has prepared his daughters for any eventuality. Reid Wiseman, commander of Artemis II, is a single father to two daughters. The 50-year-old said that he has walked his teenage daughters, &nbsp;Ellie and Katherine, through everything they would need in the event of his death. "I told them, 'Here's where the will is, here's where the trust documents are, and if anything happens to me, here's what's going to happen to you,'' Daily Mail quoted Wiseman as saying.<h2>Wiseman is a single dad</h2>While the talk of death might make some people queasy, Wiseman believes it is something everyone should do. He said, it is important for your family to be prepared in case something happens to you. "I actually wish more people in everyday life talked to their families in that way because you never know what the next day is going to bring," he said. Wiseman lost his wife to cancer at the age of 46 in 2020. He raised his daughters by himself, and the thought of leaving them behind alone does not scare the family. Wiseman said his daughters understand the risk of the mission, but they also know the importance of exploration and that humanity needs to push beyond the unknown.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/orion-for-artemis-ii-design-size-inclusions-trip-time-and-the-toilet-problem-1774851817391">Artemis II latest updates: Orion design, size, inclusions, trip time, and the toilet problem</a><h2>NASA’s Artemis II Launch Mission</h2>Artemis II mission will carry astronauts in the Orion capsule sitting atop the Space Launch System (SLS) rocket. The rocket previously undertook an unmanned mission four years ago. This is the first time since the Apollo 17 mission in 1972 that humans are going to the Moon. The Artemis II mission is a test drive that will check all systems and technologies for Artemis 3 and, later, Artemis 4, when humans finally set foot on the Moon once again.<h2>Artemis II launch windows - What happens if the launch does not happen on April 1?</h2> If, for some reason, the Artemis II launch does not happen on April 1, NASA has come with other dates. Backup launch windows have been set from April 2 to 6 and on April 30, each with a two-hour launch period.&nbsp;

NASA's Artemis II launch: Astronaut Reid Wiseman, commander of the mission, is a single dad to two girls. His daughters know the risks involved with a mission like Artemis that will go to the Moon, but they support him. He said he has talked to them about the worst-case scenario, his death.

NASA's Artemis II launch mission is ready for takeoff. Four astronauts are preparing to script history, becoming the first humans to reach the Moon in nearly 60 years. Crew members include NASA astronaut Reid Wiseman (mission commander), Victor Glover (pilot), Christina Koch (mission specialist) and Canadian Space Agency astronaut Jeremy Hansen (mission specialist). As excited as they are for the launch, they are also aware that the mission comes with risks. One astronaut has revealed that he has prepared his daughters for any eventuality. Reid Wiseman, commander of Artemis II, is a single father to two daughters. The 50-year-old said that he has walked his teenage daughters, Ellie and Katherine, through everything they would need in the event of his death. "I told them, 'Here's where the will is, here's where the trust documents are, and if anything happens to me, here's what's going to happen to you,'' Daily Mail quoted Wiseman as saying. Wiseman is a single dad While the talk of death might make some people queasy, Wiseman believes it is something everyone should do. He said, it is important for your family to be prepared in case something happens to you. "I actually wish more people in everyday life talked to their families in that way because you never know what the next day is going to bring," he said. Wiseman lost his wife to cancer at the age of 46 in 2020. He raised his daughters by himself, and the thought of leaving them behind alone does not scare the family. Wiseman said his daughters understand the risk of the mission, but they also know the importance of exploration and that humanity needs to push beyond the unknown. Also Read: Artemis II latest updates: Orion design, size, inclusions, trip time, and the toilet problem NASA’s Artemis II Launch Mission Artemis II mission will carry astronauts in the Orion capsule sitting atop the Space Launch System (SLS) rocket. The rocket previously undertook an unmanned mission four years ago. This is the first time since the Apollo 17 mission in 1972 that humans are going to the Moon. The Artemis II mission is a test drive that will check all systems and technologies for Artemis 3 and, later, Artemis 4, when humans finally set foot on the Moon once again. Artemis II launch windows - What happens if the launch does not happen on April 1? If, for some reason, the Artemis II launch does not happen on April 1, NASA has come with other dates. Backup launch windows have been set from April 2 to 6 and on April 30, each with a two-hour launch period.

NASA's Artemis II launch: Astronaut Reid Wiseman, commander of the mission, is a single dad to two girls. His daughters know the risks involved with a mission like Artemis that will go to the Moon, but they support him. He said he has talked to them about the worst-case scenario, his death.

Artemis II astronaut, a single dad to two girls, reveals what he told them before leaving for the Moon

NASA has begun the official countdown for the next launch under its Artemis program aimed at returning humans to the Moon. The mission marks a key step in testing systems that will carry astronauts on future lunar expeditions. The Artemis launch is expected to pave the way for long-term human presence on the Moon and future missions to Mars.


NASA Artemis Mission: Nasa Begins Countdown For Moon Launch 

NASA Artemis II Mission: Nasa Begins Countdown For Moon Launch 

NASA Artemis Mission: Nasa Astronauts Prepare For Lunar Flyby

NASA Artemis Mission: Nasa Begins Countdown To Moon Launch 

NASA astronaut Mike Fincke was shocked when he suffered an unexplained medical emergency aboard the space station a day before a scheduled spacewalk in January. Within days, the entire crew was evacuated in what was the space agency's first-ever medical evacuation. In an interview, Fincke has revealed that suddenly, he found himself unable to talk. The 59-year-old has been to space four times and is unsure what caused the problem. He told Associated Press that while eating dinner on January 7 after prepping for a spacewalk, he couldn't speak. He did not experience any pain, and the issue abated on its own within 20 minutes. Seeing him in distress, his crewmates tried to help him and contacted the flight surgeons on the ground. "My crewmates definitely saw that I was in distress," he said.&nbsp;Fincke says he felt fine afterwards, and still does, and the doctors haven't been able to figure out what went wrong. "It was completely out of the blue. It was just amazingly quick," he told AP from Houston's Johnson Space Center. This was the first time Fincke experienced something this strange in space. He described it as "a very, very fast lightning bolt" that struck out of nowhere. Doctors are sure he did not suffer a heart attack, and there was no choking either.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/dragon-endeavour-splashes-down-with-crew-11-following-first-medical-evacuation-from-iss-1768467433992">Dragon Endeavour splashes down with Crew 11 following first medical evacuation from ISS</a>&nbsp;Notably, he had been in space for 5 ½ months when the medical episode happened. Fincke said that the issue could be linked to his 549 days of weightlessness. He has undergone several medical tests, but did not share further details over concerns of medical privacy among other astronauts.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/orion-for-artemis-ii-design-size-inclusions-trip-time-and-the-toilet-problem-1774851817391">Orion for Artemis II: Design, size, inclusions, trip time, and the toilet problem</a><h2>NASA scanning past data to check for similar instances</h2>Now, NASA is trying to understand what could have happened and whether any other astronauts experienced something similar in the past. Crew 11 returned on January 15 aboard a SpaceX rocket. US astronauts Zena Cardman and Mike Fincke, Russian cosmonaut Oleg Platonov and Japanese astronaut Kimiya Yu had been in space since August 2025 and were due to perform a spacewalk on January 8. Fincke, for whom it would have been his tenth spacewalk, and flight engineer Zena Cardman were to make certain fittings. However, it was scrapped because of the medical issue. The 59-year-old said he feels bad that his illness caused the spacewalk to be cancelled. NASA's new administrator, Jared Isaacman, told him to stop feeling sorry since “it wasn't him, but space.”

The NASA astronaut who fell sick on the International Space Station has spoken out about his condition. Surprisingly, doctors have not been able to find the reason for his sudden illness that prompted the first medical evacuation from space.

NASA astronaut Mike Fincke was shocked when he suffered an unexplained medical emergency aboard the space station a day before a scheduled spacewalk in January. Within days, the entire crew was evacuated in what was the space agency's first-ever medical evacuation. In an interview, Fincke has revealed that suddenly, he found himself unable to talk. The 59-year-old has been to space four times and is unsure what caused the problem. He told Associated Press that while eating dinner on January 7 after prepping for a spacewalk, he couldn't speak. He did not experience any pain, and the issue abated on its own within 20 minutes. Seeing him in distress, his crewmates tried to help him and contacted the flight surgeons on the ground. "My crewmates definitely saw that I was in distress," he said. Fincke says he felt fine afterwards, and still does, and the doctors haven't been able to figure out what went wrong. "It was completely out of the blue. It was just amazingly quick," he told AP from Houston's Johnson Space Center. This was the first time Fincke experienced something this strange in space. He described it as "a very, very fast lightning bolt" that struck out of nowhere. Doctors are sure he did not suffer a heart attack, and there was no choking either. Also Read: Dragon Endeavour splashes down with Crew 11 following first medical evacuation from ISS Notably, he had been in space for 5 ½ months when the medical episode happened. Fincke said that the issue could be linked to his 549 days of weightlessness. He has undergone several medical tests, but did not share further details over concerns of medical privacy among other astronauts. Also Read: Orion for Artemis II: Design, size, inclusions, trip time, and the toilet problem NASA scanning past data to check for similar instances Now, NASA is trying to understand what could have happened and whether any other astronauts experienced something similar in the past. Crew 11 returned on January 15 aboard a SpaceX rocket. US astronauts Zena Cardman and Mike Fincke, Russian cosmonaut Oleg Platonov and Japanese astronaut Kimiya Yu had been in space since August 2025 and were due to perform a spacewalk on January 8. Fincke, for whom it would have been his tenth spacewalk, and flight engineer Zena Cardman were to make certain fittings. However, it was scrapped because of the medical issue. The 59-year-old said he feels bad that his illness caused the spacewalk to be cancelled. NASA's new administrator, Jared Isaacman, told him to stop feeling sorry since “it wasn't him, but space.”

The NASA astronaut who fell sick on the International Space Station has spoken out about his condition. Surprisingly, doctors have not been able to find the reason for his sudden illness that prompted the first medical evacuation from space.

Speechless in space: The curious case of a NASA astronaut who could not speak for 20 minutes

Orion, the spacecraft that will carry four astronauts to the Moon in April, will serve as their home for 10 days. As part of the Artemis II mission, NASA will launch the spacecraft aboard the Space Launch System (SLS) rocket from Launch Complex 39B at Kennedy Space Center in Florida on April 1. NASA astronauts Reid Wiseman (mission commander), Victor Glover (pilot), Christina Koch (mission specialist) and Canadian Space Agency astronaut Jeremy Hansen (mission specialist) will become the first humans to leave low-Earth orbit in nearly 60 years. The historic Artemis 2 mission is using Orion as the spacecraft which will lay the platform for a future human landing. The high-tech "deep-space minivan" has been named Integrity by the crew. It has been designed to keep the four astronauts safe in the radiation-filled space environment, while also acting as their mini-home, complete with a gym and a kitchen. Here is everything you need to know about Orion.<h2>Design and inclusions in Orion</h2> The Artemis spacecraft has an "open-concept floor plan", which means the astronauts will share one single space. The cabin measures 330 cubic feet and includes a do-it-yourself toilet that the crew will need to install themselves on day one. There is a kitchenette, about the size of a suitcase, a free-floating gym, a stowage compartment that will be used as a radiation shelter, and six windows. The astronauts will sleep in beds strapped to the wall. Since the space is limited, there has to be a valid reason for everything that is being taken on the Orion. It has about 50 per cent more room than the Apollo spacecraft.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/artemis-ii-and-apollo-8-the-ultimate-test-drive-for-humanity-s-return-to-the-moon-1774447885305">Artemis II and Apollo 8: The 'ultimate test drive' for humanity’s return to the moon</a>&nbsp;The 9,00,000-kilometre test flight aims to check all systems for safety and whether they are fit to sustain human life. The astronauts will carry out demonstrations and monitor systems aboard the ship during the course of their stay. Soon after the launch, Koch and Hansen will get to work and change the insides into a living space. The seats will be folded, and the toilet, water dispenser, and food warmer will be set up.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasa-goes-the-apollo-way-plans-yearly-moon-landings-starting-with-2-in-2028-1772538309531">NASA goes the Apollo way, plans yearly moon landings, starting with 2 in 2028</a><h2>The toilet problem</h2> Toilets tend to malfunction in space. The one on Orion resembles the American toilet on the space station. If something goes wrong, the crew will rely on backup urine collection bags. Solid waste could still be disposed of from the poop chute. Besides, since it is a single cabin, astronauts can close a door or hang curtains.<h2>Artemis 2 mission</h2> The historic moon mission will see the astronauts reach the furthest humans have ever been to the far side of the moon. They will travel nearly 9,000 kilometres beyond and see parts of the moon that have never been seen by anyone before.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Artemis II latest updates: The Orion spacecraft, being used for the Artemis 2 mission, has one open space which will be shared by four astronauts. What is the design, inclusions and challenges with the Orion, and how will the astronauts spend 10 days on it? Here are the details. 

Orion, the spacecraft that will carry four astronauts to the Moon in April, will serve as their home for 10 days. As part of the Artemis II mission, NASA will launch the spacecraft aboard the Space Launch System (SLS) rocket from Launch Complex 39B at Kennedy Space Center in Florida on April 1. NASA astronauts Reid Wiseman (mission commander), Victor Glover (pilot), Christina Koch (mission specialist) and Canadian Space Agency astronaut Jeremy Hansen (mission specialist) will become the first humans to leave low-Earth orbit in nearly 60 years. The historic Artemis 2 mission is using Orion as the spacecraft which will lay the platform for a future human landing. The high-tech "deep-space minivan" has been named Integrity by the crew. It has been designed to keep the four astronauts safe in the radiation-filled space environment, while also acting as their mini-home, complete with a gym and a kitchen. Here is everything you need to know about Orion. Design and inclusions in Orion The Artemis spacecraft has an "open-concept floor plan", which means the astronauts will share one single space. The cabin measures 330 cubic feet and includes a do-it-yourself toilet that the crew will need to install themselves on day one. There is a kitchenette, about the size of a suitcase, a free-floating gym, a stowage compartment that will be used as a radiation shelter, and six windows. The astronauts will sleep in beds strapped to the wall. Since the space is limited, there has to be a valid reason for everything that is being taken on the Orion. It has about 50 per cent more room than the Apollo spacecraft. Also Read: Artemis II and Apollo 8: The 'ultimate test drive' for humanity’s return to the moon The 9,00,000-kilometre test flight aims to check all systems for safety and whether they are fit to sustain human life. The astronauts will carry out demonstrations and monitor systems aboard the ship during the course of their stay. Soon after the launch, Koch and Hansen will get to work and change the insides into a living space. The seats will be folded, and the toilet, water dispenser, and food warmer will be set up. Also Read: NASA goes the Apollo way, plans yearly moon landings, starting with 2 in 2028 The toilet problem Toilets tend to malfunction in space. The one on Orion resembles the American toilet on the space station. If something goes wrong, the crew will rely on backup urine collection bags. Solid waste could still be disposed of from the poop chute. Besides, since it is a single cabin, astronauts can close a door or hang curtains. Artemis 2 mission The historic moon mission will see the astronauts reach the furthest humans have ever been to the far side of the moon. They will travel nearly 9,000 kilometres beyond and see parts of the moon that have never been seen by anyone before.

Artemis II latest updates: The Orion spacecraft, being used for the Artemis 2 mission, has one open space which will be shared by four astronauts. What is the design, inclusions and challenges with the Orion, and how will the astronauts spend 10 days on it? Here are the details.&nbsp;

Artemis II latest updates: Orion design, size, inclusions, trip time, and the toilet problem

A NASA astronaut has shared a photo of a mysterious-looking object that is growing tentacles on the International Space Station (ISS). The image looks eerie and creepy, and netizens are shocked to see something so strange in space. However, it is a perfectly regular item that we see almost every day in our kitchens. Don Pettit, who took the photo during Expedition 72 that lasted from 23 September 2024 till 18 April 2025, said that it is just a potato. He wrote alongside the photo on X, "Spudnik-1, an orbiting potato on @Space_Station!" He added that he took potatoes with him on Expedition 72 for his space garden. He experimented with them in his off-duty time. The photo also shows Velcro used to affix the potato in the “improvised grow light terrarium.” &nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Spudnik-1, an orbiting potato on <a href="https://twitter.com/Space_Station?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Space_Station</a>! I flew potatoes on Expedition 72 for my space garden, an activity I did in my off-duty time. This is an early purple potato, complete with spot of hook Velcro to anchor it in my improvised grow light terrarium. Potatoes are one… <a href="https://t.co/MXsoV20vJ8">pic.twitter.com/MXsoV20vJ8</a>&mdash; Don Pettit (@astro_Pettit) <a href="https://twitter.com/astro_Pettit/status/2035090957570281813?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 20, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Potatoes in space and a nod to The Martian</h2>&nbsp;Pettit stressed that potatoes make for one of the most efficient foods "based on edible nutrition to total plant mass (including roots)." The NASA astronaut pointed to the acclaimed novel and movie "The Martian" in which a stranded astronaut grows potatoes on Mars and survives only on them for 549 sols, or Martian days, which is 39 minutes longer than a day on Earth. "Recognized by Andy Weir in his book/movie "The Martian," potatoes will have a place in future exploration of space. So I thought it good to get started now!" Pettit wrote. Someone asked him how growing potatoes in space was different from growing them on Earth. "The roots would grow in all directions absent gravity, and all plants I have ever grown in space have grown far slower than they would have on Earth," he replied.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-space-station-development-launch-of-first-module-to-cost-187mn-1774509840923">Indian Space Station: Development &amp; launch of first module to cost $187mn</a>&nbsp;NASA has grown several fruits and vegetables in space. "Our team at Kennedy Space Center envisions planting more produce in the future, such as tomatoes and peppers," the space agency wrote. The ISS is set to crash down on Earth by 2030, and the space agency is working to set up a new station at the earliest.&nbsp;

An egg-like object with tentacles growing out of it has been photographed in the International Space Station. An astronaut shared the photo taken around the end of 2024 and early April. What is it? NASA astronaut explains.

A NASA astronaut has shared a photo of a mysterious-looking object that is growing tentacles on the International Space Station (ISS). The image looks eerie and creepy, and netizens are shocked to see something so strange in space. However, it is a perfectly regular item that we see almost every day in our kitchens. Don Pettit, who took the photo during Expedition 72 that lasted from 23 September 2024 till 18 April 2025, said that it is just a potato. He wrote alongside the photo on X, "Spudnik-1, an orbiting potato on @Space_Station!" He added that he took potatoes with him on Expedition 72 for his space garden. He experimented with them in his off-duty time. The photo also shows Velcro used to affix the potato in the “improvised grow light terrarium.”

An egg-like object with tentacles growing out of it has been photographed in the International Space Station. An astronaut shared the photo taken around the end of 2024 and early April. What is it? NASA astronaut explains.

Strange, black object photographed growing at the space station: 'Spudnik-1, an orbiting...'

NASA has announced plans to build a $20 billion base on the Moon, marking a major shift in its Artemis programme. The agency will redirect resources from a planned lunar orbit station to focus on long-term surface operations.

The project aims to establish a sustained human presence on the Moon, with infrastructure, robotic missions and advanced systems planned over the coming years.

NASA’s chief also stressed that the United States “will never give up the Moon again,” signalling a long-term strategic commitment amid a growing space race.

NASA Unveils $20 Billion Moon Base Plan, Says US “Will Never Give Up The Moon” | WION

A pyramid-like structure first seen on Mars in 2001 has renewed debate on whether human-like creatures inhabited the planet billions of years ago. The image was captured by NASA’s Mars Global Surveyor (MGS) and found by researcher Keith Laney while he was scanning the data. He believes that this three-sided pyramid on the Martian surface is possibly an artificial structure. Expressing surprise, he said, "Were this found anywhere on Earth, we'd surely be digging into it." The NASA photo is generating interest on social media 25 years later, after it was reshared by documentary filmmaker Brian Dobbs. "On Mars, there is a three-sided pyramid the size of the Great Pyramid in Egypt," he said. The photo of this pyramid would not have reached a lot of people in 2001. But now, it is grabbing eyeballs because the photo truly is amazing.&nbsp;This pyramid-like structure is located in the western region of canyon Candor Chasma inside Valles Marineris, a canyon system which scientists say is the second-largest in our solar system. It has been clicked at least five times by NASA’s Mars Global Surveyor and Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter missions between 2001 and 2016. Dobbs told Daily Mail that it is not proof of past life on Mars, but it definitely raises questions about the history of the red planet. Meanwhile, NASA says that since the canyon system is riddled with steep cliffs and witnesses landslides, it is possible for unusual and highly geometric surface features to take shape.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasa-just-saved-a-precious-drill-on-mars-from-212-million-kilometres-away-1767174556834">NASA just saved a precious drill stuck on Mars since 8 months from 212 million kilometres away</a><h2>Photos of the pyramid on Mars</h2>The first photo was taken in 2001, with sunlight falling in such a way that only one side of the structure was visible. In April 2002, a three-sided shape was seen once again. &nbsp;Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter took a high-resolution photo in 2007 and showed more features for the first time. More images in 2014 and 2016 highlighted the geometrical features even more clearly. What was striking in all these images was that, irrespective of sunlight, shadow, image quality, and conditions, the three-sided structure appeared identical each time. The three lines seen from above the structure appear perfectly straight.&nbsp;Mars researcher George Haas wrote in a research paper, that the three-sided pyramid "exhibits a level of geometry and symmetry that supports a high probability of artificial origins." Reports suggest that CIA carried out mysterious experiments regarding Mars, and documents show that an ancient civilisation that built at least one pyramid once lived on the Red Planet. "Project Stargate" seemingly had the agency send a person's consciousness back in time who described a pyramid and a road, suggesting the presence of a civilisation. Today, people like Elon Musk believe that Mars is humanity's next home. However, that aspiration faces a lot of hurdles today.

A photo showing a pyramid-like structure on Mars, taken by NASA's spacecraft several times, is grabbing attention on social media. It is raising questions about whether the Red Planet was ever home to an ancient civilisation.

A pyramid-like structure first seen on Mars in 2001 has renewed debate on whether human-like creatures inhabited the planet billions of years ago. The image was captured by NASA’s Mars Global Surveyor (MGS) and found by researcher Keith Laney while he was scanning the data. He believes that this three-sided pyramid on the Martian surface is possibly an artificial structure. Expressing surprise, he said, "Were this found anywhere on Earth, we'd surely be digging into it." The NASA photo is generating interest on social media 25 years later, after it was reshared by documentary filmmaker Brian Dobbs. "On Mars, there is a three-sided pyramid the size of the Great Pyramid in Egypt," he said. The photo of this pyramid would not have reached a lot of people in 2001. But now, it is grabbing eyeballs because the photo truly is amazing. This pyramid-like structure is located in the western region of canyon Candor Chasma inside Valles Marineris, a canyon system which scientists say is the second-largest in our solar system. It has been clicked at least five times by NASA’s Mars Global Surveyor and Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter missions between 2001 and 2016. Dobbs told Daily Mail that it is not proof of past life on Mars, but it definitely raises questions about the history of the red planet. Meanwhile, NASA says that since the canyon system is riddled with steep cliffs and witnesses landslides, it is possible for unusual and highly geometric surface features to take shape. Also Read: NASA just saved a precious drill stuck on Mars since 8 months from 212 million kilometres away Photos of the pyramid on Mars The first photo was taken in 2001, with sunlight falling in such a way that only one side of the structure was visible. In April 2002, a three-sided shape was seen once again. Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter took a high-resolution photo in 2007 and showed more features for the first time. More images in 2014 and 2016 highlighted the geometrical features even more clearly. What was striking in all these images was that, irrespective of sunlight, shadow, image quality, and conditions, the three-sided structure appeared identical each time. The three lines seen from above the structure appear perfectly straight. Mars researcher George Haas wrote in a research paper, that the three-sided pyramid "exhibits a level of geometry and symmetry that supports a high probability of artificial origins." Reports suggest that CIA carried out mysterious experiments regarding Mars, and documents show that an ancient civilisation that built at least one pyramid once lived on the Red Planet. "Project Stargate" seemingly had the agency send a person's consciousness back in time who described a pyramid and a road, suggesting the presence of a civilisation. Today, people like Elon Musk believe that Mars is humanity's next home. However, that aspiration faces a lot of hurdles today.

A photo showing a pyramid-like structure on Mars, taken by NASA's spacecraft several times, is grabbing attention on social media. It is raising questions about whether the Red Planet was ever home to an ancient civilisation.

Three-side pyramid-like structure seen on Mars triggers debate - Natural or artificial?

NASA has announced that the Artemis 2 mission will finally launch on April 1. While it is something to be happy about, some people on social media are sceptical. Yes, because it is April 1, best known as April Fool's Day. The ambitious space endeavour will take humans to the moon after over 50 years. The spacecraft Orion will hover over the moon during a 10-day trip. The launch has been pushed forward several times due to hydrogen leaks and helium blockages. The first date of launch was February 6. &nbsp;A "wet rehearsal" started on February 2, which was also moved forward by a few days because of cold weather. Artemis 2 mission's Space Launch System (SLS) rocket was filled with 2.65 million litres of cryogenic liquid hydrogen (LH2) and liquid oxygen (LOX) but faced leaks. Another wet rehearsal took place on February 19 that was largely successful, but a post-test inspection revealed a helium flow issue in the rocket’s upper stage (ICPS). The rocket was rolled back to the Vehicle Assembly Building (VAB) to fix the issue, and later, NASA picked April 1 as the launch date.<h2>What NASA said of Artemis 2 launch?</h2>Lori Glaze, acting associate administrator, Exploration Systems Development Mission Directorate, said, "The next time we tank the vehicle will be when we're attempting to launch. I am comfortable, and the agency is comfortable with targeting April 1 as our first opportunity." NASA also confirmed in an X post that it is targeting a six–day window at the start of April. If things do not work out, it has April 30 scheduled as another potential launch window. The mission has faced several problems and delays, and netizens can't help but mock the choice of date.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasa-goes-the-apollo-way-plans-yearly-moon-landings-starting-with-2-in-2028-1772538309531">NASA goes the Apollo way, plans yearly moon landings, starting with 2 in 2028</a><h2>April Fool's Day prank? ‘No one is going to believe…’</h2>"They are going to say April Fools if they have to push the launch," a user wrote on X, with another saying, "'Artemis II performs a perfect launch on all fools day.' No one is going to believe that..." One user wrote, "April 1st might be the most perfectly coded launch date possible. Half the internet will think it’s a prank." They added, “Meanwhile, humans are being sent around the Moon for the first time in 50+ years. Plot twist: It’s not April Fools Day anymore.”Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/an-american-flag-that-has-waited-56-years-to-go-to-space-finally-gets-its-chance-with-artemis-2-1769173675138">An American flag that has waited 56 years to go to space finally gets its chance with Artemis 2</a><h2>NASA changes Artemis moon mission&nbsp;</h2>Artemis 2 is already running behind schedule by at least two years. During the Artemis 1 mission, problems were seen with Orion's heat shield. NASA is now on a tight deadline it set for itself - the end of April 2026. NASA astronauts Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover, and Christina Koch, and Canadian Space Agency astronaut Jeremy Hansen have been gearing up to write history. Meanwhile, the space agency has made some changes in the Artemis programme. Artemis 3 will no longer land humans on the moon, but will test communications, propulsion systems, and the new Extravehicular Activity (xEVA) suits in space. The moon landing will now happen in 2028 with Artemis 4. &nbsp;

NASA has announced April 1 as the new launch date for Artemis 2. The internet has welcomed the news not just because it would be a revolutionary date for humanity, but because it is April Fool's Day. People are asking, why would NASA launch a historic moon mission on April Fool's?

NASA has announced that the Artemis 2 mission will finally launch on April 1. While it is something to be happy about, some people on social media are sceptical. Yes, because it is April 1, best known as April Fool's Day. The ambitious space endeavour will take humans to the moon after over 50 years. The spacecraft Orion will hover over the moon during a 10-day trip. The launch has been pushed forward several times due to hydrogen leaks and helium blockages. The first date of launch was February 6. A "wet rehearsal" started on February 2, which was also moved forward by a few days because of cold weather. Artemis 2 mission's Space Launch System (SLS) rocket was filled with 2.65 million litres of cryogenic liquid hydrogen (LH2) and liquid oxygen (LOX) but faced leaks. Another wet rehearsal took place on February 19 that was largely successful, but a post-test inspection revealed a helium flow issue in the rocket’s upper stage (ICPS). The rocket was rolled back to the Vehicle Assembly Building (VAB) to fix the issue, and later, NASA picked April 1 as the launch date. What NASA said of Artemis 2 launch? Lori Glaze, acting associate administrator, Exploration Systems Development Mission Directorate, said, "The next time we tank the vehicle will be when we're attempting to launch. I am comfortable, and the agency is comfortable with targeting April 1 as our first opportunity." NASA also confirmed in an X post that it is targeting a six–day window at the start of April. If things do not work out, it has April 30 scheduled as another potential launch window. The mission has faced several problems and delays, and netizens can't help but mock the choice of date. Also Read: NASA goes the Apollo way, plans yearly moon landings, starting with 2 in 2028 April Fool's Day prank? ‘No one is going to believe…’ "They are going to say April Fools if they have to push the launch," a user wrote on X, with another saying, "'Artemis II performs a perfect launch on all fools day.' No one is going to believe that..." One user wrote, "April 1st might be the most perfectly coded launch date possible. Half the internet will think it’s a prank." They added, “Meanwhile, humans are being sent around the Moon for the first time in 50+ years. Plot twist: It’s not April Fools Day anymore.” Also Read: An American flag that has waited 56 years to go to space finally gets its chance with Artemis 2 NASA changes Artemis moon mission Artemis 2 is already running behind schedule by at least two years. During the Artemis 1 mission, problems were seen with Orion's heat shield. NASA is now on a tight deadline it set for itself - the end of April 2026. NASA astronauts Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover, and Christina Koch, and Canadian Space Agency astronaut Jeremy Hansen have been gearing up to write history. Meanwhile, the space agency has made some changes in the Artemis programme. Artemis 3 will no longer land humans on the moon, but will test communications, propulsion systems, and the new Extravehicular Activity (xEVA) suits in space. The moon landing will now happen in 2028 with Artemis 4.

NASA has announced April 1 as the new launch date for Artemis 2. The internet has welcomed the news not just because it would be a revolutionary date for humanity, but because it is April Fool's Day. People are asking, why would NASA launch a historic moon mission on April Fool's?

NASA picks April 1 as Artemis 2 launch date, and everyone is wondering, 'Why April Fool's...?'

Van Allen Probe A is tumbling down and will soon crash somewhere on Earth, although the expectation is that most of the satellite will burn up in the atmosphere, and the fragments will fall into the ocean. The probe was supposed to stay in orbit for another eight years at least. So, what prompted its early re-entry? The answer lies in its orbit. Van Allen Probe A and its twin satellite B were launched in 2012 to study a zone that protects Earth from the sun's radiation. The first layers that protect Earth are the Van Allen Belts, named after American physicist James Van Allen, who discovered them in 1958. They form an invisible shield around Earth and are our first line of defence. This region is shaped like a doughnut and comprises protons and electrons trapped by Earth's magnetic field. They remain at altitudes varying from a few hundred to nearly 96,000 kilometres above the surface. The Van Allen probes had one purpose - to study this area above Earth.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/moon-is-safe-jwst-pulls-off-near-impossible-feat-locates-asteroid-2024-yr4-1772796801306">JWST pulls off near-impossible feat, locates asteroid that had gone into hiding</a><h2>Why understanding the Van Allen belt is important&nbsp;</h2>If humans want to return to the Moon and travel beyond, they will have to cross this dangerous region. This is why it was important to study it, and so the Van Allen probes set out on their mission. This region is unlike the low-Earth orbit where most of our satellites are. Since these belts form a shield, trapping and deflecting cosmic radiation, any spacecraft here endures extreme damage. When the Sun is at its maximum and unleashes plasma and coronal mass ejections, the belts swell, affecting satellites and communication systems. The probes were on a two-year mission, which eventually extended to seven. In 2019, the probes stopped functioning. NASA estimated that they will drag down on their own in the next few years, with Van Allen Probe A given time till 2034. However, since the sun has been extremely active in the past few years, the timeline changed.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-pin-source-of-three-mysterious-signals-from-centre-of-milky-way-to-excited-dark-matter-1772794076955">Scientists pin source of three mysterious signals coming from centre of Milky Way to…</a><h2>How the sun led Van Allen probe A to return six years early</h2>Solar maximum inflated Earth's upper atmosphere, causing more drag on satellites. Van Allen Probe A's orbit started decaying and this meant it would crash down much earlier than anticipated. The 600-kilogram spacecraft was expected to return by the evening of March 10, with NASA saying the window could extend by up to 24 hours. Can it cause any destruction on Earth? Experts say the chances of the satellite harming anyone are roughly 1 in 4,200. The odds of the debris and remaining fragments falling into the ocean are much higher since Earth is mostly covered with water. Meanwhile, Van Allen Probe B, which was given time till 2030, might also follow its twin in the coming months.

Van Allen Belt shields Earth from solar radiation. The satellite sent to study this zone is now crashing down way before it was supposed to. Ironically, Van Allen probe A was supposed to study the sun's behaviour, and now the sun is what has led it to return early.

Van Allen Probe A is tumbling down and will soon crash somewhere on Earth, although the expectation is that most of the satellite will burn up in the atmosphere, and the fragments will fall into the ocean. The probe was supposed to stay in orbit for another eight years at least. So, what prompted its early re-entry? The answer lies in its orbit. Van Allen Probe A and its twin satellite B were launched in 2012 to study a zone that protects Earth from the sun's radiation. The first layers that protect Earth are the Van Allen Belts, named after American physicist James Van Allen, who discovered them in 1958. They form an invisible shield around Earth and are our first line of defence. This region is shaped like a doughnut and comprises protons and electrons trapped by Earth's magnetic field. They remain at altitudes varying from a few hundred to nearly 96,000 kilometres above the surface. The Van Allen probes had one purpose - to study this area above Earth. Also Read: JWST pulls off near-impossible feat, locates asteroid that had gone into hiding Why understanding the Van Allen belt is important If humans want to return to the Moon and travel beyond, they will have to cross this dangerous region. This is why it was important to study it, and so the Van Allen probes set out on their mission. This region is unlike the low-Earth orbit where most of our satellites are. Since these belts form a shield, trapping and deflecting cosmic radiation, any spacecraft here endures extreme damage. When the Sun is at its maximum and unleashes plasma and coronal mass ejections, the belts swell, affecting satellites and communication systems. The probes were on a two-year mission, which eventually extended to seven. In 2019, the probes stopped functioning. NASA estimated that they will drag down on their own in the next few years, with Van Allen Probe A given time till 2034. However, since the sun has been extremely active in the past few years, the timeline changed. Also Read: Scientists pin source of three mysterious signals coming from centre of Milky Way to… How the sun led Van Allen probe A to return six years early Solar maximum inflated Earth's upper atmosphere, causing more drag on satellites. Van Allen Probe A's orbit started decaying and this meant it would crash down much earlier than anticipated. The 600-kilogram spacecraft was expected to return by the evening of March 10, with NASA saying the window could extend by up to 24 hours. Can it cause any destruction on Earth? Experts say the chances of the satellite harming anyone are roughly 1 in 4,200. The odds of the debris and remaining fragments falling into the ocean are much higher since Earth is mostly covered with water. Meanwhile, Van Allen Probe B, which was given time till 2030, might also follow its twin in the coming months.

Van Allen Belt shields Earth from solar radiation. The satellite sent to study this zone is now crashing down way before it was supposed to. Ironically, Van Allen probe A was supposed to study the sun's behaviour, and now the sun is what has led it to return early.

Van Allen probe A returns: How solar maximum caused it to crash years ahead of schedule

NASA is preparing to test a crewed flight as a precursor to its upcoming Moon landing mission. The test aims to ensure safety, validate spacecraft systems, and prepare astronauts for lunar operations. This milestone is part of NASA’s broader Artemis program, which seeks to return humans to the Moon and advance long-term exploration of the lunar surface.


NASA Artemis Mission: MNASA to test crewed flight before attempting moon landing

NASA is preparing to test a crewed flight as a precursor to its upcoming Moon landing mission. The test aims to ensure safety, validate spacecraft systems, and prepare astronauts for lunar operations. This milestone is part of NASA’s broader Artemis program, which seeks to return humans to the Moon and advance long-term exploration of the lunar surface.

NASA To Test Crewed Flight Before Attempting Moon Landing

NASA has delayed the launch of its Artemis II lunar mission once again, pushing back timelines for the crewed expedition that aims to return humans around the Moon. The space agency cited technical challenges and the need for further testing as reasons for the postponement. The latest delay adds pressure to schedule goals and highlights the complexities of deep‑space mission planning as NASA works toward future lunar exploration.


NASA Delays Launch of Artemis II Lunar Mission Once Again

NASA has delayed the launch of Artemis II following a technical issue involving helium flow in the Space Launch System (SLS) rocket. The setback impacts NASA’s ambitious lunar exploration timeline under the Artemis program, which aims to return humans to the Moon.

Engineers are assessing the propulsion system anomaly and conducting detailed inspections before setting a new launch date. Artemis II is designed to carry astronauts on a crewed mission around the Moon, marking a critical step toward sustained lunar exploration and future Mars missions.

NASA Delays Launch Of Artemis II Lunar Mission Due To Failure In Helium Flow Of SLS Rocket

NASA chief Jared Isaacman on Saturday ruled out a March launch for Artemis II – the first crewed flyby mission to the moon in more than 50 years – citing technical issues.

Workers detected a problem with helium flow to the massive Space Launch System (SLS) rocket that will "take the March launch window out of consideration," Issacman said in a post on X.

Artemis II Rocket Launch: NASA Rules Out March Launch of Moon Mission

NASA chief Jared Isaacman on Saturday ruled out a March launch for Artemis II – the first crewed flyby mission to the moon in more than 50 years – citing technical issues.

Workers detected a problem with helium flow to the massive Space Launch System (SLS) rocket that will "take the March launch window out of consideration," Issacman said in a post on X.


NASA is targeting March 6 for the launch of Artemis II, a historic mission that will send astronauts around the Moon for the first time in more than 50 years.According to NASA officials, the earliest launch opportunity is March 6. The date follows a successful “wet dress rehearsal” at the Kennedy Space Center in Florida, where engineers fuelled the rocket and ran a full countdown test without liftoff.If successful, Artemis II will mark humanity’s furthest crewed journey into space since the Apollo era.<h2>What is Artemis II and why it matters</h2>Artemis II is the second mission under NASA’s Artemis programme. It will carry four astronauts on a 10-day journey around the far side of the Moon and back to Earth.The crew includes three Americans Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover and Christina Koch and one Canadian, Jeremy Hansen.The last time humans travelled to the Moon was in 1972 during Apollo 17. Artemis II will not land on the lunar surface but will pave the way for Artemis III, which aims to return astronauts to the Moon by 2028, according to NASA’s current timeline.<h2>Rocket, spacecraft and mission plan</h2>The astronauts will launch aboard NASA’s 98-metre-tall Space Launch System (SLS) rocket. The SLS has flown only once before, in November 2022, during the uncrewed Artemis I mission.At the top of the rocket sits the Orion spacecraft. The capsule, roughly the size of a minibus inside, will serve as the crew’s home for the 10-day mission.<h2>The mission plan includes:</h2>One day in orbit around EarthAround four days travelling to the MoonFlying 6,500 to 9,500 km above the lunar surfacePassing around the Moon’s far sideFour days returning to EarthSplashdown in the Pacific OceanNASA officials said the astronauts will spend several hours observing and photographing the Moon’s surface during the flyby.&nbsp;<h2>Wet dress rehearsal clears key hurdle</h2>NASA confirmed that the latest wet dress rehearsal was completed successfully after an earlier attempt in February was stopped due to a liquid hydrogen leak.Officials said seals and filters linked to the fuel system were replaced and tested. According to NASA’s Lori Glaze, engineers were able to fully fuel the SLS rocket within the planned timeline and complete the countdown sequence.The successful test allowed NASA to set March 6 as the earliest launch window.Artemis III, SpaceX and global competitionIf Artemis II is successful, Artemis III will attempt to land astronauts near the Moon’s south pole. NASA has contracted SpaceX, led by Elon Musk, to build the lunar lander using its Starship rocket system.However, delays in Starship development have prompted NASA to request updated plans from SpaceX. The agency has also asked Blue Origin, owned by Jeff Bezos, to accelerate its own lunar lander plans.The US faces competition from China, which aims to land astronauts on the Moon by 2030. Both countries are targeting the Moon’s south pole due to the presence of water ice and scientific interest.

NASA is targeting March 6 for the launch of Artemis II, the first crewed mission to travel around the Moon since 1972. After a successful wet dress rehearsal at Kennedy Space Center, the mission will send four astronauts aboard Orion on a lunar flyby, paving the way for a future Moon landing.

NASA is targeting March 6 for the launch of Artemis II, a historic mission that will send astronauts around the Moon for the first time in more than 50 years. According to NASA officials, the earliest launch opportunity is March 6. The date follows a successful “wet dress rehearsal” at the Kennedy Space Center in Florida, where engineers fuelled the rocket and ran a full countdown test without liftoff. If successful, Artemis II will mark humanity’s furthest crewed journey into space since the Apollo era. What is Artemis II and why it matters Artemis II is the second mission under NASA’s Artemis programme. It will carry four astronauts on a 10-day journey around the far side of the Moon and back to Earth. The crew includes three Americans Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover and Christina Koch and one Canadian, Jeremy Hansen. The last time humans travelled to the Moon was in 1972 during Apollo 17. Artemis II will not land on the lunar surface but will pave the way for Artemis III, which aims to return astronauts to the Moon by 2028, according to NASA’s current timeline. Rocket, spacecraft and mission plan The astronauts will launch aboard NASA’s 98-metre-tall Space Launch System (SLS) rocket. The SLS has flown only once before, in November 2022, during the uncrewed Artemis I mission. At the top of the rocket sits the Orion spacecraft. The capsule, roughly the size of a minibus inside, will serve as the crew’s home for the 10-day mission. The mission plan includes: One day in orbit around Earth Around four days travelling to the Moon Flying 6,500 to 9,500 km above the lunar surface Passing around the Moon’s far side Four days returning to Earth Splashdown in the Pacific Ocean NASA officials said the astronauts will spend several hours observing and photographing the Moon’s surface during the flyby. Wet dress rehearsal clears key hurdle NASA confirmed that the latest wet dress rehearsal was completed successfully after an earlier attempt in February was stopped due to a liquid hydrogen leak. Officials said seals and filters linked to the fuel system were replaced and tested. According to NASA’s Lori Glaze, engineers were able to fully fuel the SLS rocket within the planned timeline and complete the countdown sequence. The successful test allowed NASA to set March 6 as the earliest launch window. Artemis III, SpaceX and global competition If Artemis II is successful, Artemis III will attempt to land astronauts near the Moon’s south pole. NASA has contracted SpaceX, led by Elon Musk, to build the lunar lander using its Starship rocket system. However, delays in Starship development have prompted NASA to request updated plans from SpaceX. The agency has also asked Blue Origin, owned by Jeff Bezos, to accelerate its own lunar lander plans. The US faces competition from China, which aims to land astronauts on the Moon by 2030. Both countries are targeting the Moon’s south pole due to the presence of water ice and scientific interest.

NASA is targeting March 6 for the launch of Artemis II, the first crewed mission to travel around the Moon since 1972. After a successful wet dress rehearsal at Kennedy Space Center, the mission will send four astronauts aboard Orion on a lunar flyby, paving the way for a future Moon landing.

NASA targets March 6 launch for Artemis II mission: After 52 years, NASA to send humans around the Moon

The Boeing Starliner mishap that kept two astronauts in space for nine months was more dangerous than NASA made it out to be at the time. The space agency has now placed the seriousness of the problem on the same level as the space shuttle Challenger and Columbia tragedies. While the former saw seven crew members die after the space shuttle broke apart 73 seconds into its flight, the latter disintegrated upon re-entering Earth's atmosphere, killing all seven astronauts on board. NASA has reclassified Starliner's Crew Flight Test (CFT) as a "Type A mishap", the worst one you can have. "This was a really challenging event in our recent history. We almost had a really terrible day," NASA Associate Administrator Amit Kshatriya said during a press conference on Thursday (February 19).&nbsp;&nbsp;Astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore went to the International Space Station on board Starliner on June 5, 2024. They were supposed to stay only for 10 days. But on their way to the ISS, the spacecraft suffered multiple thruster failures. NASA classifies issues into 5 categories - Type A, Type B, Type C, Type D, and "close calls", with the first one being the most lethal.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/nasa-bent-the-rules-for-starliner-docking-was-scarier-than-thought-8919760">'We didn't know why...': NASA bent the rules for Starliner, docking was scarier than thought</a><h2>NASA admits Starliner avoided major disaster</h2>NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman admitted on Thursday that it was way scarier and could have led to disastrous consequences had certain decisions not been made. "Flight rules were appropriately challenged, control was recovered, and docking was achieved," he read from a letter. Isaacman added, "It is worth restating what should be obvious: At that moment, had different decisions been made, had thrusters not been recovered, or had docking been unsuccessful, the outcome of this mission could have been very, very different."Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/what-sunita-williams-said-as-starliner-began-its-return-journey-to-earth-756585">What Sunita Williams said as Starliner began its return journey to Earth. ‘Bring her back...’</a><h2>Starliner suffered problems while undocking</h2>While Williams and Wilmore remained on the ISS, NASA tried to fix the thruster problem from land. However, they failed to fix it and decided to bring Starliner back on September 6 without its crew. The capsule might have made a safe return, but this, too, did not go smoothly. Isaacman revealed that, as it undocked from the ISS, "an unexpected crew module propulsion failure" occurred. During re-entry into Earth's atmosphere, it lacked "fault tolerance" in its thrusters.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science-tech/the-gravity-of-politics-sunitas-extended-starliner-mission-and-the-earthbound-echoes-8865423">The gravity of politics: Sunita's extended Starliner Mission and the earthbound echoes</a><h2>Why did NASA not admit Starliner's failure at the time?</h2>If such serious problems occurred with the Starliner, why didn't NASA classify it as a Type A mishap at the time? This apparently has to do with getting Boeing's spacecraft certified to carry astronauts to space. Isaacman even admitted this. "Concern for the Starliner program's reputation influenced that decision," he said. Isaacman added that this "placed the mission, the crew and America's space program at risk in ways that were not fully understood at the time", and " that can never happen again".Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/strange-noises-coming-from-starliner-are-quite-common-says-nasa-755379">'Strange noises' coming from Starliner are quite common, says NASA</a>&nbsp;Over a year later, &nbsp;NASA and Boeing are still trying to figure out what caused the problem with the thrusters. NASA has been trying to have an alternative to SpaceX to carry astronauts to space. But Boeing's failure to build a reliable vehicle after winning the contract in 2014 is problematic.

NASA says Starliner suffered such great problems as it reached space in June 2024 that things could have gone terribly wrong. Boeing's failed spacecraft could have faced disastrous consequences because of the thruster problem if the right decisions had not been taken.

The Boeing Starliner mishap that kept two astronauts in space for nine months was more dangerous than NASA made it out to be at the time. The space agency has now placed the seriousness of the problem on the same level as the space shuttle Challenger and Columbia tragedies. While the former saw seven crew members die after the space shuttle broke apart 73 seconds into its flight, the latter disintegrated upon re-entering Earth's atmosphere, killing all seven astronauts on board. NASA has reclassified Starliner's Crew Flight Test (CFT) as a "Type A mishap", the worst one you can have. "This was a really challenging event in our recent history. We almost had a really terrible day," NASA Associate Administrator Amit Kshatriya said during a press conference on Thursday (February 19). Astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore went to the International Space Station on board Starliner on June 5, 2024. They were supposed to stay only for 10 days. But on their way to the ISS, the spacecraft suffered multiple thruster failures. NASA classifies issues into 5 categories - Type A, Type B, Type C, Type D, and "close calls", with the first one being the most lethal. Also Read: 'We didn't know why...': NASA bent the rules for Starliner, docking was scarier than thought NASA admits Starliner avoided major disaster NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman admitted on Thursday that it was way scarier and could have led to disastrous consequences had certain decisions not been made. "Flight rules were appropriately challenged, control was recovered, and docking was achieved," he read from a letter. Isaacman added, "It is worth restating what should be obvious: At that moment, had different decisions been made, had thrusters not been recovered, or had docking been unsuccessful, the outcome of this mission could have been very, very different." Also Read: What Sunita Williams said as Starliner began its return journey to Earth. ‘Bring her back...’ Starliner suffered problems while undocking While Williams and Wilmore remained on the ISS, NASA tried to fix the thruster problem from land. However, they failed to fix it and decided to bring Starliner back on September 6 without its crew. The capsule might have made a safe return, but this, too, did not go smoothly. Isaacman revealed that, as it undocked from the ISS, "an unexpected crew module propulsion failure" occurred. During re-entry into Earth's atmosphere, it lacked "fault tolerance" in its thrusters. Also Read: The gravity of politics: Sunita's extended Starliner Mission and the earthbound echoes Why did NASA not admit Starliner's failure at the time? If such serious problems occurred with the Starliner, why didn't NASA classify it as a Type A mishap at the time? This apparently has to do with getting Boeing's spacecraft certified to carry astronauts to space. Isaacman even admitted this. "Concern for the Starliner program's reputation influenced that decision," he said. Isaacman added that this "placed the mission, the crew and America's space program at risk in ways that were not fully understood at the time", and " that can never happen again". Also Read: 'Strange noises' coming from Starliner are quite common, says NASA Over a year later, NASA and Boeing are still trying to figure out what caused the problem with the thrusters. NASA has been trying to have an alternative to SpaceX to carry astronauts to space. But Boeing's failure to build a reliable vehicle after winning the contract in 2014 is problematic.

NASA says Starliner suffered such great problems as it reached space in June 2024 that things could have gone terribly wrong. Boeing's failed spacecraft could have faced disastrous consequences because of the thruster problem if the right decisions had not been taken.

NASA admits capsule that took Sunita Williams to space avoided major tragedy: Lethality risk similar to Columbia

NASA's confirmation that thousands of city-killer asteroids are currently lurking in space. Our modern satellites and telescopes have no way to track and identify these asteroids.
Last year’s near-miss with a massive space rock proved that our current detection systems are failing. Is Earth's luck about to run out?

Shocking Truth About The Earth's Asteroid Blind Spot

Astronomers led by Valerio Carruba (UNESP) recently discovered a mostly hidden group of asteroids orbiting the Sun alongside Venus. These Venus co-orbitals share Venus’s orbital period but aren’t its satellites.


NASA's Terrifying Admission on Killer Asteroids, Thousands of City-Killer Asteroids Lurk Undetected

Humans are incapable of protecting themselves from an asteroid strike, a NASA scientist has warned. Even though the space agency is regularly monitoring space rocks that could pose danger to Earth, there are nearly 25,000 of them hovering around us that remain undetected. These asteroids have the potential to flatten cities in a particular region. So even though a global catastrophe might not occur, these rocks can definitely cause massive regional destruction. Kelly Fast, head of planetary defence at NASA, has triggered panic after she admitted that nobody is ready to protect us from city-killers. "What keeps me up at night is the asteroids we don’t know about," Fast said while speaking to the American Association for the Advancement of Science, The Sun reported. She says we know about the small rocks and about those that are huge. But the asteroids that are about 140 metres and large remain hidden from sight, but are lurking near Earth.&nbsp;Fast said these asteroids can "really do regional rather than global damage, and we don’t know where they are." She added, "It’s estimated there are about 25,000 of those and we’re only about 40 per cent of the way through." Adding to the worry is another scientist, Dr Nancy Chabot, from Johns Hopkins University in Maryland. She headed NASA's DART mission in 2022, and yet, isn't optimistic about saving Earth from a potential city-killer asteroid. She said, "We don’t know where 50 per cent of the 140-metre asteroids are, which is a concern. We would not have any way to go and actively deflect one right now." Chatbot says there is no investment being made into protecting Earth from these asteroids, as there is a lack of cash.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science-tech/nasa-says-asteroid-2024-yr4-can-hit-the-moon-8776642">'Once in 1,000 years...': NASA says asteroid 2024 YR4 can hit the Moon. Is Earth safe?</a><h2>Why can't a mission like DART save Earth from an asteroid today?</h2>Chabot says this is because we don't have anything like it ready to go. "We don’t have [another] DART just lying around. If something like YR4 had been headed towards the Earth, we would not have any way to go and deflect it actively right now," she said. Asteroid 2024 YR4 is a city-killer space rock that was given a small chance of smashing into Earth in 2032. However, later calculations showed that this will not happen. This asteroid has a high probability of crashing into the Moon, according to NASA.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/is-nasa-nuking-an-asteroid-real-life-armageddon-could-happen-by-2031-details-1759238690934">Is NASA nuking an asteroid? Real-life Armageddon could happen by 2031 | Details</a>&nbsp;https://www.wionews.com/videos/moon-in-crosshairs-4-chance-of-massive-asteroid-hit-1769745979134/embed<h2>DART mission</h2>The DART spacecraft slammed into Dimorphos, a moonlet of the asteroid Didymos in 2022. It was meant to test a method of planetary defence against near-Earth objects (NEOs). It launched on 24 November 2021 and hit Dimorphos on 26 September 2022, almost a year later. Using a similar defence mechanism against another asteroid would more or less require a similar window. This means if an asteroid were to make a sudden appearance, Nancy and Kelly's fear might come true. &nbsp; &nbsp;

Two NASA scientists claim Earth is at risk from over 25,000 unknown asteroids that are yet to be discovered. If one of them moves towards the planet, no amount of preparation or a mission like DART would help.

Humans are incapable of protecting themselves from an asteroid strike, a NASA scientist has warned. Even though the space agency is regularly monitoring space rocks that could pose danger to Earth, there are nearly 25,000 of them hovering around us that remain undetected. These asteroids have the potential to flatten cities in a particular region. So even though a global catastrophe might not occur, these rocks can definitely cause massive regional destruction. Kelly Fast, head of planetary defence at NASA, has triggered panic after she admitted that nobody is ready to protect us from city-killers. "What keeps me up at night is the asteroids we don’t know about," Fast said while speaking to the American Association for the Advancement of Science, The Sun reported. She says we know about the small rocks and about those that are huge. But the asteroids that are about 140 metres and large remain hidden from sight, but are lurking near Earth. Fast said these asteroids can "really do regional rather than global damage, and we don’t know where they are." She added, "It’s estimated there are about 25,000 of those and we’re only about 40 per cent of the way through." Adding to the worry is another scientist, Dr Nancy Chabot, from Johns Hopkins University in Maryland. She headed NASA's DART mission in 2022, and yet, isn't optimistic about saving Earth from a potential city-killer asteroid. She said, "We don’t know where 50 per cent of the 140-metre asteroids are, which is a concern. We would not have any way to go and actively deflect one right now." Chatbot says there is no investment being made into protecting Earth from these asteroids, as there is a lack of cash. Also Read: 'Once in 1,000 years...': NASA says asteroid 2024 YR4 can hit the Moon. Is Earth safe? Why can't a mission like DART save Earth from an asteroid today? Chabot says this is because we don't have anything like it ready to go. "We don’t have [another] DART just lying around. If something like YR4 had been headed towards the Earth, we would not have any way to go and deflect it actively right now," she said. Asteroid 2024 YR4 is a city-killer space rock that was given a small chance of smashing into Earth in 2032. However, later calculations showed that this will not happen. This asteroid has a high probability of crashing into the Moon, according to NASA. Also Read: Is NASA nuking an asteroid? Real-life Armageddon could happen by 2031 | Details https://www.wionews.com/videos/moon-in-crosshairs-4-chance-of-massive-asteroid-hit-1769745979134/embed DART mission The DART spacecraft slammed into Dimorphos, a moonlet of the asteroid Didymos in 2022. It was meant to test a method of planetary defence against near-Earth objects (NEOs). It launched on 24 November 2021 and hit Dimorphos on 26 September 2022, almost a year later. Using a similar defence mechanism against another asteroid would more or less require a similar window. This means if an asteroid were to make a sudden appearance, Nancy and Kelly's fear might come true.

Two NASA scientists claim Earth is at risk from over 25,000 unknown asteroids that are yet to be discovered. If one of them moves towards the planet, no amount of preparation or a mission like DART would help.

25,000 hidden asteroids lurking near Earth pose major threat: NASA scientist says the fear 'keeps me up at night'

Four new astronauts have arrived at the International Space Station aboard a SpaceX rocket as part of the Crew-12 mission. The international team will take over operations after a previous crew returned early due to health concerns.

The successful docking marks another milestone in NASA and SpaceX’s ongoing commercial space partnership.

SpaceX Crew-12 Docks At International Space Station: Four New Astronauts Arrive Via SpaceX Rocket

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