Artemis II Astronauts Reflect on Epic Lunar Journey Ahead of Splashdown

Thu Apr 09 2026 20:18:32 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

As Artemis II approaches its dramatic return to Earth, astronauts share their experiences and insights from their groundbreaking mission, reminding us of humanity's connection to the cosmos.

The Artemis II mission marks a significant milestone as the astronauts prepare for their return from a historic journey around the Moon. With the landing imminent, the crew reflects on their extraordinary experiences and the challenges ahead, underscoring the importance of data collected during this lunar flyby.

HOUSTON (AP) — As the Artemis II astronauts draw closer to Earth, they reflect on their profound journey around the moon. With only a day left before their return, the crew, the first lunar explorers in over fifty years, eagerly anticipates the data and stories they will bring back home.

Pilot Victor Glover expressed excitement about the insights gained, emphasizing the wealth of information and photographs collected during the mission. He described a fireball reentry as a profound experience, adding, We have to get back. All the good stuff is coming back with us.

Commander Reid Wiseman shared the surreal feeling of being out of contact with Earth while behind the moon, noting it was a unique aspect of their journey. The astronauts reached a record distance of 252,756 miles from Earth, making them the most distant humans to date, a milestone celebrated with a stunning total solar eclipse that marked their passage.

As they approach reentry and splashdown off the coast of San Diego, mission preparations are in full swing. The crew is expected to land in the Pacific Ocean aboard the Orion capsule, which is predicted to hit the atmosphere at over 23,000 mph. This operation marks a significant collaboration between NASA and the Defense Department, highlighting advancements since the Apollo program.

With the mission nearing its conclusion, NASA officials remain vigilant, closely monitoring the heat shield’s integrity as astronauts prepare for the next phases of Artemis missions, including the goal of establishing a sustainable lunar presence.