The first images captured by the crew of the Orion spacecraft during their seven-hour flyby of the Moon have been released by NASA. According to the agency, the astronauts of the Artemis II mission managed to photograph regions of the Moon never seen before, offering valuable data that scientists will now analyse.
“Our four astronauts aboard Artemis II — Reid, Victor, Christina, and Jeremy — have taken humanity on an extraordinary journey around the Moon and returned with images of remarkable clarity and scientific value that will inspire future generations,” said Nicky Fox, associate administrator of NASA’s Science Mission Directorate in Washington.
During the mission, the crew captured thousands of photographs and recorded extensive audio data. Among the highlights was the rare observation of a solar eclipse seen from space, an event seldom witnessed by humans.
While orbiting the Moon, the astronauts also documented numerous impact craters, most formed by meteorite collisions. In addition, they recorded evidence of ancient lava flows and various surface fractures. These findings are expected to help scientists better understand the Moon’s geological evolution and support preparations for future deep-space missions, including those targeting Mars.
The crew also monitored variations in colour, brightness, and texture across the lunar surface. They observed both an Earthrise and an Earthset — visually striking phenomena that provided further scientific and symbolic value to the mission.
Although Artemis II did not include a lunar landing, it set a new record for the farthest distance travelled by humans in space, reaching 406,771 kilometres from Earth. The mission launched on April 1, 2026, following a delay caused by technical issues with the rocket’s safety systems. The astronauts are scheduled to return to Earth on April 11, 2026, splashing down in the Pacific Ocean near San Diego. After landing, the crew will be transported aboard the USS John P. Murtha. The entire return sequence will be broadcast live on NASA+ and YouTube.
Artemis II plays a crucial role in paving the way for upcoming lunar missions. Artemis III, scheduled for 2027, will test rendezvous operations with specialised spacecraft designed to transport astronauts and equipment between lunar orbit and the surface. Artemis IV, planned for 2028, aims to send astronauts to the Moon’s South Pole, while Artemis V will focus on establishing a sustainable human presence using modules and robotic systems. Work on the Lunar Gateway currently remains on hold.
Meanwhile, other global space powers are advancing their own lunar ambitions. Europe and Japan plan to send astronauts as part of international efforts, while China is targeting a crewed landing near the Moon’s South Pole by 2030. Russia aims to establish a small lunar base between 2030 and 2035, and India plans to send astronauts to the Moon by 2040, building on the success of the Chandrayaan-3 mission.
The broader Artemis program is focused not only on scientific exploration but also on building a sustainable human presence on the Moon and preparing for future crewed missions to Mars.
Alternative source: NASA, BBC