HOUSTON (AP) — The Artemis II astronauts are closing in on Earth after an incredible lunar journey that has been dubbed surreal and profound. With less than 150,000 miles between them and home, the astronauts reflect on their historic experiences, including being the first humans to venture around the moon in over 50 years. Flight pilot Victor Glover said, We have to get back. There's so much data that you've seen already, but all the good stuff is coming back with us.
The crew, which includes commander Reid Wiseman, pilot Victor Glover, Christina Koch, and Canada’s Jeremy Hansen, reached a record distance of 252,756 miles from Earth. They experienced a breathtaking moment when a total solar eclipse occurred as they emerged from behind the moon. The astronauts’ reentry on Friday will be particularly significant as it is the first collaboration between NASA and the Defense Department for a lunar crew's reentry since Apollo 17 in 1972.
As they prepare for a high-speed reentry hitting nearly 34,965 feet per second, NASA is focused on ensuring the Orion capsule’s heat shield will withstand the intense heat upon reentry. Mission control remains vigilant as the last steps of the nearly 10-day mission approach, emphasizing the importance of a safe return.
The crew, which includes commander Reid Wiseman, pilot Victor Glover, Christina Koch, and Canada’s Jeremy Hansen, reached a record distance of 252,756 miles from Earth. They experienced a breathtaking moment when a total solar eclipse occurred as they emerged from behind the moon. The astronauts’ reentry on Friday will be particularly significant as it is the first collaboration between NASA and the Defense Department for a lunar crew's reentry since Apollo 17 in 1972.
As they prepare for a high-speed reentry hitting nearly 34,965 feet per second, NASA is focused on ensuring the Orion capsule’s heat shield will withstand the intense heat upon reentry. Mission control remains vigilant as the last steps of the nearly 10-day mission approach, emphasizing the importance of a safe return.
