Meet the Historic Crew of NASA's Artemis II Mission to the Moon

Fri Sep 26 2025 19:10:51 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

NASA's Artemis II mission, set to launch in February 2026, will mark the first crewed mission to the Moon in over 50 years. The diverse crew includes groundbreaking astronauts from various backgrounds, each bringing unique stories and aspirations to this historic journey.

Commander Reid Wiseman and his team are geared up for a monumental mission as they prepare to orbit the Moon, exploring areas not previously mapped by Apollo missions. The Artemis II crew aims to inspire future generations and answer profound questions about humanity and our place in the universe. With plans to promote unity and hope, this mission represents a significant step toward establishing a sustainable human presence on the Moon.

Nasa's upcoming Artemis II mission promises to be historic, intending to launch the first crewed journey to the Moon in 50 years as early as February 2026. This mission will see astronauts fly over uncharted lunar territories, providing insights no human has ever gained before.

Commander Reid Wiseman expressed his excitement in a recent news conference, stating they are heading for an incredible journey, one that could redefine human understanding of the Moon. Wiseman noted that the mission aims to inspire a new generation, similar to how Apollo missions ignited interest decades ago.

Mission Specialist Christina Koch highlighted that the crew will have the opportunity to study the lunar surface closely, stating confidently, Believe it or not, human eyes are one of the best scientific instruments that we have. This sentiment echoes the mission's theme of utilizing human perspectives in scientific inquiry.

The Artemis II mission is a segment of the broader Artemis program, which focuses on establishing a sustainable presence on the lunar surface. Wiseman remarked, We're bringing together the world, emphasizing the mission's goal of harmony and hope for all humanity.

Among the crew is Christina Koch, poised to become the first woman to go to the Moon, drawing inspiration from the iconic Earthrise photo by Apollo 8 astronaut Bill Anders. Koch noted, The Moon is a beacon for science and understanding our origins. She expressed that the Artemis II mission serves to not just explore but also to awaken the human spirit of inquiry and curiosity.

Additionally, Canadian astronaut Jeremy Hansen will be making his first journey into space, becoming the first non-American to orbit the Moon. He reflected on the power of unity exhibited during previous missions and the shared hope for a better future.

With the crew also including Victor Glover, who is set to be the first Black person to travel to the Moon, the diversity of backgrounds and experiences within the crew has been highlighted as a crucial aspect of this mission, representing a reinvigorated commitment to inclusivity in space exploration.

Ultimately, the crew, which also includes veteran astronaut Reid Wiseman, hopes to pave the way for future explorations, including a manned mission to Mars. As Wiseman concluded, “When I look at my crew, they are keenly driven and humble. Together, we are not just going to the Moon; we are going for all humanity!”