The four astronauts aboard Artemis II have safely returned to Earth after completing a groundbreaking journey around the Moon.
The crew splashed down in the Pacific Ocean following a flawless re-entry, marking the successful end of a nine-day mission that took them farther from Earth than any humans in history. They are now recovering aboard a recovery vessel after their long voyage.
Travelling at speeds exceeding 24,000 mph (38,600 km/h), the Orion spacecraft endured extreme conditions during re-entry. Its heat shield faced temperatures reaching about half as hot as the surface of the Sun, demonstrating the spacecraft’s advanced engineering.
During descent, the capsule—named Integrity by the crew—experienced a tense six-minute communication blackout with mission control at NASA in Houston. Relief followed when Commander Reid Wiseman re-established contact, confirming the crew was safe.
Moments later, parachutes deployed successfully, slowing the spacecraft before a smooth splashdown in the ocean. The safe return triggered celebrations among mission teams, marking a critical milestone for the Artemis programme.
The success of Artemis II now paves the way for future missions aimed at landing astronauts on the Moon and eventually establishing a sustained human presence on its surface.
Haven’t our wizards been there before? If not, they are under performing
Like our economy
Mukuka Nkoloso tried but I guess the NCSR didn’t help his craft positively