The numbers
The Artemis II mission has successfully launched four astronauts on a remarkable journey around the Moon. As of April 4, 2026, the Orion spacecraft was more than 160,000 miles from Earth and less than 120,000 miles from the Moon, marking a significant milestone in the mission’s timeline.
On this date, the crew, which includes NASA astronauts Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover, Christina Koch, and Canadian astronaut Jeremy Hansen, passed the halfway point of their voyage to the Moon just two days, five hours, and 24 minutes after liftoff. Wiseman expressed his awe, stating, “It was really great to wake up this morning and look out the window and see the full moon off the front of the vehicle.”
The Artemis II mission is not just a journey; it is a test of new technologies and capabilities. The crew practiced CPR in space and tested medical equipment from the Orion medical kit, ensuring they are prepared for any situation. Koch noted the stunning view from the spacecraft, saying, “We can see the Moon out of the docking hatch right now, it is a beautiful sight.”
On April 6, 2026, the crew will conduct a lunar flyby, flying 4,066 miles away from the Moon at its closest approach. This mission is particularly notable as it is expected to surpass the Apollo 13 distance record by 4,102 miles. During this flyby, the crew will also observe a solar eclipse from space, adding to the mission’s significance.
As the Orion spacecraft approaches the Moon, it will experience a communications blackout when it passes behind the lunar surface. Mission Control reminded the astronauts, “You are now closer to the moon than you are to us on Earth,” emphasizing the remarkable distance they have traveled.
In terms of data transmission, the Orion Artemis II Optical Communications System has already surpassed 100 gigabytes of data downlinked during the mission, showcasing the advancements in space communication technology. The astronauts are currently on a ‘free-return’ trajectory, utilizing the Moon’s gravity to return to Earth without propulsion, a testament to the mission’s innovative planning.
The Artemis II mission is a pioneering journey around the Moon, following the Artemis I mission, and represents a significant step towards future lunar exploration and potential manned missions to Mars. As the crew continues their voyage, observers eagerly await the upcoming lunar flyby and the wealth of data that will be gathered during this historic mission.
