Artemis II: NASA’s Historic Crewed Lunar Flyby Reaches Critical Phase
As of Sunday, April 5, 2026, NASA’s Artemis II mission is hurtling toward the moon, marking the first time humans have ventured into deep space in over 50 years. This 10-day mission serves as a vital test of the systems required for a long-term human presence on the lunar surface and eventual missions to Mars.
The crew is currently preparing for the most anticipated segment of their journey: a lunar flyby that will allow them to see the far side of the moon—a view impossible from Earth.
Current Mission Status: April 5, 2026
The Orion spacecraft is currently maintaining a trajectory that puts the crew approximately 206,482 miles away from Earth. Traveling at a velocity of 1,771 mph, the spacecraft is closing in on the moon, currently positioned about 75,000 miles from the lunar surface.
According to the NASA schedule, the crew is spending April 5 conducting planned testing and performing a critical burn to ensure they remain on the correct trajectory for the flyby. The actual lunar flyby is scheduled for April 6, occurring within a six-hour window where the sun, moon, and Orion align to provide the crew a clear view of the lunar far side.
Meet the Artemis II Crew
The mission carries a diverse crew of four astronauts representing international cooperation in deep space exploration:
- Reid Wiseman (NASA)
- Victor Glover (NASA)
- Christina Hammock Koch (NASA)
- Jeremy Hansen (Canadian Space Agency)
Mission Objectives and Technical Milestones
Artemis II is a crewed test flight designed to demonstrate the capabilities of the Space Launch System (SLS) rocket and the Orion spacecraft. Unlike later missions, Artemis II will not land on the moon; instead, it utilizes a free-return trajectory to bring the crew safely back to Earth.
Key milestones achieved during the journey include:
- The Launch: The mission launched on April 1, 2026, at approximately 6:35 p.m. ET.
- Translunar Injection (TLI): The crew successfully completed the TLI burn, the last major engine firing of the mission, which set the spacecraft on its path toward the moon.
- Deep Space Operations: The crew has already demonstrated manual piloting and suit demonstrations, and astronaut Reid Wiseman has utilized Orion’s flywheel exercise device to maintain physical health during the flight.
The Path to Artemis IV and Mars
This mission is a stepping stone for NASA’s broader lunar strategy. Whereas Artemis II tests the crew’s ability to survive and operate in deep space, the goal of landing humans on the moon is slated for Artemis IV in 2028. The data gathered by Orion and the SLS rocket will provide the foundation for the first crewed missions to Mars.
Key Takeaways: Artemis II at a Glance
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Launch Date | April 1, 2026 |
| Mission Duration | 10 Days |
| Crew Size | 4 Astronauts |
| Primary Spacecraft | Orion |
| Primary Rocket | Space Launch System (SLS) |
| Key Event | Lunar Flyby (April 6, 2026) |
Frequently Asked Questions
Will Artemis II land on the moon?
No. Artemis II is a crewed lunar flyby mission. The first crewed lunar landing of the Artemis program is planned for Artemis IV in 2028.
How far is the crew from Earth?
As of April 5, 2026, the crew has traveled over 206,482 miles from Earth and continues to gain distance as they approach the moon.
What is the purpose of the TLI burn?
The Translunar Injection (TLI) burn is the critical engine firing that pushes the spacecraft out of Earth’s orbit and sets it on a trajectory toward the moon.