The Artemis Program

NASA's Artemis program is bringing humans back to the Moon for the first time since 1972. The program is named after Artemis, the twin sister of Apollo in Greek mythology. Artemis plans to land the first woman and the first person of color on the Moon. It is also a stepping stone for future trips to Mars.

The New Rocket and Spacecraft

Artemis uses a giant rocket called the Space Launch System, or SLS. It is one of the most powerful rockets ever built. The Orion spacecraft sits on top and carries the astronauts. Artemis I launched in 2022 as an uncrewed test flight around the Moon and back. Future missions will carry astronauts to the lunar surface.

Goals of Artemis

Artemis wants to build a lasting presence on the Moon. Astronauts will explore the Moon's south pole, where there may be ice in shadowy craters. NASA plans to build a small space station called Gateway that will orbit the Moon. What we learn on the Moon will help us prepare for the long journey to Mars.

Fun Facts

• The SLS rocket is taller than the Statue of Liberty.
• Artemis plans to explore the Moon's south pole, a place no human has ever visited.
• The Orion spacecraft can carry up to four astronauts on missions to the Moon.

Did You Know?

Artemis I traveled 1.4 million miles on its trip around the Moon in 2022, going farther from Earth than any spacecraft designed for humans has ever gone.