NASA’s SLS rocket core stage is on its way to the Kennedy Space Center in Florida in preparation for the Artemis II moon mission set for September 2025. The mission will transport four astronauts around the moon and is the first mission of its kind since the Apollo 17 mission in 1972.
What’s Happening & Why This Matters
The core stage, which measures 213 feet tall, traveled from the NASA Michoud Assembly Facility near New Orleans on a barge. Boeing Space shared footage of the rocket booster’s journey, marking a significant milestone in NASA’s plan to return to lunar orbit.
The highly anticipated Artemis II mission will also involve final outfitting and testing of the SLS rocket. This mission is crucial in the broader Artemis program, which aims to land the first woman and person of color on the lunar surface.
The success of Artemis II will determine the timeline for Artemis III, which will use the SLS rocket to send the Orion spacecraft to lunar orbit. Upon docking with SpaceX’s Starship spacecraft, the astronauts will transfer to the lunar surface. While the date for Artemis III may depend on the testing of SpaceX’s Starship vehicle, NASA is hopeful to achieve this milestone by the end of the decade.
TF Summary: What’s Next
Check in at NASA.gov to stay updated on the latest advancements in space technology and continue to follow critical tests for the Artemis program, including the Artemis V moon rocket and the progress of the Orion spacecraft. These projects can redefine space exploration, missions to the moon, and beyond.
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