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ScienceSource: bbc.com2026-03-24

NASA's Artemis II Moon Mission Launch Details

NASA plans to launch Artemis II in early April 2026, marking the first crewed mission around the Moon in over 50 years. The mission aims to prepare for future lunar landings.

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NASA is planning to launch Artemis II, the first crewed mission around the Moon in over 50 years, in early April 2026. The mission will last about 10 days and will involve four astronauts testing the Orion spacecraft. They will practice flying and check the spacecraft's systems while in space.

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Quick quiz

1. When is NASA planning to launch Artemis II?

2. How long will the Artemis II mission last?

3. How many astronauts are on the Artemis II crew?

4. What will the crew test during the mission?

5. Which spacecraft will be used for Artemis II?

Key vocabulary

  • 1. launch

    to send a spacecraft into the air or space

    Example: NASA plans to launch the rocket next month.

  • 2. mission

    a specific task or journey undertaken for a purpose

    Example: The mission to the Moon will last ten days.

  • 3. crew

    a group of people working together on a spacecraft

    Example: The crew will test the spacecraft's systems.

  • 4. orbit

    the curved path of a spacecraft around a planet or moon

    Example: The spacecraft will enter orbit around the Moon.

  • 5. systems

    a set of connected parts working together

    Example: The astronauts will check the spacecraft's life-support systems.

Discussion prompt

How do you think space missions like Artemis II can inspire future generations?

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