Artemis II Successfully Launches Astronauts to the Moon for First Time in Over 50 Years

NASA's long-awaited Artemis II mission began with complete success, with the Space Launch System thrusting the Orion manned capsule into orbit around Earth on Wednesday. The translunar injection burn that will send the craft onward to its lunar flyby will take place later today, just after 8 p.m. ET.

"Today's launch marks a defining moment for our nation and for all who believe in exploration," said NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman. "Artemis II builds on the vision [of] returning humanity to the Moon for the first time in more than 50 years and opening the next chapter of lunar exploration beyond Apollo. Aboard Orion are four remarkable explorers preparing for the first crewed flight of this rocket and spacecraft, a true test mission that will carry them farther and faster than any humans in a generation."

Artemis II's launch yesterday was the first step in a 10-day ...