NASA is approaching a major milestone in space exploration through the Artemis 2 mission, which will send astronauts on a journey around the Moon. The main goal of the Artemis program remains the return of humans to the lunar surface for the first time since the Apollo missions between 1969 and 1972.
Scientific goals and global competition
The Artemis program aims to deliver new scientific discoveries, economic benefits, and inspire a new generation of space explorers. At the same time, global competition, including from China, is accelerating these efforts.
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The Moon provides valuable insights into the history of the Solar System, as its surface preserves evidence of cosmic impacts. Unlike Earth, where natural processes erase such traces, the Moon acts as an archive of cosmic history.
Artemis 2 mission
Artemis 2 is the second of the first five missions in the program and will be the first crewed mission. Four astronauts will undertake a journey of approximately 10 days around the Moon and back to Earth.
The mission follows Artemis 1, an uncrewed flight conducted in 2022, and is designed to test systems for future missions.
Long-term plans
Artemis 3, 4, and 5 will continue the program, with the latter missions aiming for lunar landing and the development of a long-term presence on the Moon, expected around 2028.
In addition to scientific research, the program will also study the effects of space travel on human physiology, a key aspect for future long-duration missions.
Photo: Daily Sabah
