On December 14, 1972, Apollo 17 astronauts Gene Cernan and Harrison Schmitt said goodbye to the Moon.
But this is precisely where we find ourselves today, with the Apollo missions firmly in the history books.
What is NASAs Artemis project?
Artist’s conception of an Artemis astronaut working on the lunar surface.Image: NASA
But theres a lot more to Artemis than just plopping two people onto the lunar surface.
Announced in 2017, Artemis will enable human expansion across the solar system, according to NASAsArtemis Plan.
Why did NASA choose the name Artemis?
NASA’s Space Launch System on the launchpad at Kennedy Space Center in Florida.Photo: NASA/Joel Kowsky
The new name, it could be argued, is a timely correction to a potentially sexist oversight.
Why is NASA going back to the Moon?
The part about Artemis being a stepping stone to Mars is also crucial.
Artemis mission overview, showing expected advancements on the surface and in lunar orbit.Image: NASA
What technologies are needed for Artemis?
But practically everything else still needs to be built.
How much will Artemis cost?
The Axiom Space spacesuit for Artemis.Photo: Axiom Space
Is SpaceX a part of Artemis?
Yes, SpaceX is playing a key role in Artemis.
That said, NASA isseeking a second lunar landerfrom a yet-to-be determined commercial provider not named SpaceX.
Artist’s conception of an Artemis surface mission.Image: NASA
Is Blue Origin a part of Artemis?
Yes, Blue Origin is involved in NASAs Artemis program.
One significant contribution is through the National Team, led by Blue Origin.
Conceptual image showing a SpaceX human lander design.Image: SpaceX
Has NASA chosen astronauts for the Artemis missions?
NASA has said thatall active NASA astronauts are eligibleto take part in the lunar program.
When did Artemis 1 launch?
Overview of Artemis 1.Image: NASA
Theinaugural launch of NASAs Space Launch Systemoccurred on November 16 at 1:47 a.m ET.
NASA attempted to launchArtemis 1on two prior occasions, both resulting in a scrub.
A hydrogen leak was detected during the first launch attempt, but engineers were successful in resolving the problem.
The Artemis 2 crew: Christina Koch, Victor Glover, Reid Wiseman, and Jeremy Hansen.Photo: NASA
When is the Artemis 2 launch?
When is the Artemis 3 launch?
Artemis 3 is currently targeted for no earlier than late 2026.
Conceptual view of Lunar Gateway (left) and the Orion spacecraft.Image: NASA
Development delays with SpaceXs Starship also contributed to the delay.
The two remaining crew members will stay aboard Orion.
At least four spacewalks are planned, with a priority placed on the search for water ice.
Artist’s conception of a late Artemis era mission.Image: NASA
NASA has also said it will choose a person of color for the moonwalks.
When is the Artemis 4 launch?
The fourth Artemis mission is currentlyplannedfor September 2028.
Four astronauts will launch to the Lunar Gateway, where they will continue to build-out the lunar outpost.
As before, SLS will perform the launching duties and Orion will serve as the spacecraft.
When is the Artemis 5 launch?
Artemis 5 should launch in September 2029.
The astronauts will once again explore the south polar region of the Moon.
When is the Artemis 6 launch?
NASA expects to launch Artemis 6 in September 2030.
A key goal of this mission will be to deliver an airlock to Gateway.
A crewed lunar landing is also anticipated, but the specific lunar lander has not yet been chosen.
When is the Artemis 7 launch?
Artemis 7 is currently planned for September 2031.
By this point, sustained crewed operations on Gateway should begin in earnest.
What will happen next?
By this stage, lunar adventures could last as long as 45 days.
Should the Artemis program unfold as expected, NASA can then plan for a crewed trip to Mars.
And from there, the rest of solar system awaits.
But it all starts with Artemis.
This article was originally published on May 14, 2022.
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