Artemis II snaps Earth from space as moon mission kicks into high gear
Artemis II snaps Earth from space as moon mission kicks into high gear
NASA's Artemis II crew captures stunning Earth views and tests a crucial free-return trajectory as Orion powers toward the Moon.
Artemis II is advancing toward the Moon on a landmark test flight. NASA released the first pictures from space captured by Orion, including a clear view of Earth through the window, taken by Artemis II Commander Reid Wiseman.
A pivotal milestone came after launch when Orion's main engine fired for about six minutes, pushing the spacecraft toward a free-return trajectory that would steer it back to Earth if needed. The burn marks a key step in returning humanity to deep space since the last Apollo era in 1972.
Once in space, Orion deployed its four solar arrays, a sign of healthy power and readiness for the long test journey.
In parallel with the real mission, Lego released a NASA rocket ship set celebrating Artemis II Moon mission, highlighting public enthusiasm and educational outreach.
The Artemis II mission is set to test life-support, navigation, and deep-space systems on a crewed flight around the Moon and back.
