In a major step towards returning humans to the Moon, NASA has begun rolling out the colossal rocket for its historic Artemis II mission. The Space Launch System (SLS) rocket and Orion spacecraft embarked on a slow, four-mile journey from the Vehicle Assembly Building to the launchpad at Florida's Kennedy Space Center.
The Road to Launch Pad 39B
The move, which started in the early hours of Saturday, January 17, is a critical milestone. Mounted on the giant Crawler-Transporter 2 vehicle, the stack is taking a painstakingly slow trip expected to last up to 12 hours. Once at Launch Pad 39B, engineers will commence several days of preparations, including a crucial rehearsal test that involves loading all the rocket's propellants.
The ten-day crewed mission is currently scheduled to launch as early as February 6, 2024. This will mark the first time humans have travelled to the Moon and back since the Apollo 17 mission concluded in December 1972. The Artemis programme represents America's renewed commitment to lunar exploration, with the subsequent Artemis III mission aiming to land astronauts on the lunar surface around 2027.
A Foundation for Deep Space Exploration
NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman stated the mission fulfils "a promise to the American people that we will return to the moon." He outlined the broader vision, noting Artemis will send astronauts to explore for scientific discovery and economic benefit, ultimately "building the foundation for the first crewed missions to Mars."
Isaacman also highlighted the Moon's role as a "perfect proving ground" for autonomous systems. He envisions early lunar bases relying heavily on autonomous rovers for tasks like mining and mineral extraction, a technological pathway that will inform future robotic missions, even to planets like Venus.
The Artemis II Crew and Their Mission
The mission will be flown by a diverse, four-person international team:
- Reid Wiseman (Mission Commander) - NASA astronaut
- Victor Glover - NASA astronaut
- Christina Koch - NASA astronaut
- Jeremy Hansen - Canadian Space Agency astronaut
Astronaut Christina Koch emphasised the importance of adaptability, noting the crew is preparing for the unknown. "The most important thing is that you're ready to take on what you haven't prepared for," she said. She also pointed to the Moon's scientific value as a pristine record of solar system history, which could offer clues about planetary formation and the potential for life elsewhere.
Canadian astronaut Jeremy Hansen called the mission "good for humanity," admitting he had previously taken the Moon "for granted." He anticipates the sight of humans orbiting our celestial neighbour will inspire people worldwide to look up with renewed wonder.
The mission will conclude with the Orion spacecraft splashing down in the Pacific Ocean, where the crew and capsule will be recovered with assistance from the United States Navy.
