Source link : https://las-vegas-news.com/artemis-ii-crew-poised-for-record-breaking-lunar-flyby-today/
Astronauts Surpass Apollo-Era Milestones (Image Credits: Pixabay)
The Artemis II mission reaches a pivotal moment on April 6, 2026, as its four astronauts prepare to execute the first crewed lunar flyby in more than 50 years. Launched earlier this week from Kennedy Space Center, the Orion spacecraft carrying the crew has already traveled farther from Earth than any humans before.[1][2] This event marks a crucial test for NASA’s deep-space ambitions, paving the way for future lunar landings and Mars exploration. Viewers worldwide can tune in for live coverage of the spacecraft’s closest approach to the Moon.[3]
Astronauts Surpass Apollo-Era Milestones
Since Apollo 17 returned from the Moon in 1972, no humans had ventured so close to our celestial neighbor until now. The Artemis II crew shattered the Apollo 13 distance record at approximately 1:56 p.m. EDT, reaching beyond 248,655 miles from Earth.[2] Commander Reid Wiseman leads the team, supported by pilot Victor Glover, mission specialist Christina Koch from NASA, and Jeremy Hansen from the Canadian Space Agency.
The mission launched on April 1, 2026, and has progressed smoothly through engine burns and system checks. Orion entered the Moon’s sphere of influence early this morning, setting the stage for intensive observations. Ground teams at NASA’s Johnson Space Center monitor every step, ensuring the crew remains safe during this high-stakes maneuver.[1]
Hour-by-Hour Flyby Timeline
The seven-hour lunar…
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Author : Matthias Binder
Publish date : 2026-04-06 19:59:00
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