As Artemis II approaches its launch on Wednesday at 6:24 p.m. ET, it’s crucial to understand that this mission transcends a mere "trip around the moon." The 10-day flight serves as a critical test for NASA’s most advanced transportation system to date.
Mission Phases:
Phase 1: High Earth Orbit “Checkout”
Following the SLS rocket’s core stage separation, the crew will spend the first 24 hours in high Earth orbit. This safety-first approach ensures that Orion’s life support systems function correctly. Pilot Victor Glover will perform manual maneuvers near the spent upper stage to prepare for future docking missions.
Phase 2: Translunar Injection (TLI)
Once NASA confirms Orion’s systems are operational, the crew will ignite the engines for a translunar injection, propelling them towards the moon. The trajectory forms a figure-eight orbit, allowing for a safe return to Earth even in the event of engine failure.
Phase 3: Further than Any Human in History
On day six, the crew will reach the moon, performing high-altitude flybys approximately 4,600 miles from its far side. This distance will potentially set a new record for human travel from Earth while providing valuable data on deep-space radiation.
Phase 4: Rapid Return
After orbiting the moon, Orion will take about four days to return. Traveling at 25,000 miles per hour, the capsule will engage in a skip reentry to manage heat before deploying 11 parachutes and landing in the Pacific Ocean. The mission will be deemed a success only after the U.S. Navy rescues the crew, paving the way for the subsequent Artemis III mission.
