Astrophiles are eagerly awaiting the launch of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration's Artemis II on Wednesday, which is set to be the most powerful rocket launch on record and will send human beings back toward the moon for the first time in over 50 years.

The United States is poised to send astronauts beyond Earth’s orbit for the first time in over 50 years as NASA prepares to launch Artemis II.

While I was leading a tour of the National Air and Space Museum in January 2026, a visitor posed this insightful question: “Why has it taken so long to return to the Moon?” After all, NASA had the know-how and technology to send humans to the lunar surface more than 50 years ago as part of the Apollo program.

The four astronauts aboard the Orion spacecraft are heading to the Moon after completing the critical engine burn that propels the capsule on its journey.

Four astronauts will launch on the Artemis II mission Wednesday, marking the first human trip around the moon in over 50 years.

During Artemis I, the Orion spacecraft heat shield suffered charring, prompting an investigation. Here's why NASA is confident for Artemis II.

NASA didn't pack any tree seeds this time, but the Canadian Space Agency did, continuing the tradition. As a member of the Artemis II crew, Canadian astronaut Hansen is the first non-American on a deep space flight. Other seeds, including a packet of zinnias and chili peppers, are also on board.