What Did Artemis-2 Astronauts Witness Up Close Near the Moon?
Astronauts on NASA’s Artemis-2 mission to the Moon observed a total solar eclipse from close proximity and are now preparing to return to Earth on Saturday. Having witnessed the eclipse while aboard the spacecraft near the Moon, the crew is set for re-entry later this morning. According to Commander Reid Wiseman, the Orion spacecraft crew experienced a view unlike anything previously seen by humans. Pilot Victor Glover described the sight as indescribable, saying words could not capture what he saw.
During this mission, the spacecraft traveled approximately 252,756 miles (406,771 kilometers) from Earth — the longest distance ever traveled by humans in space. While passing behind the far side of the Moon, communication between the astronauts and NASA was lost for about 40 minutes. After contact was restored, mission specialist Christina H Koch expressed how incredible it felt to once again hear voices from Earth through the spacecraft’s communication systems. Former US President Donald Trump also spoke directly with the astronauts, expressing pride in their historic achievement.
The astronauts are expected to splash down near the Pacific Ocean, close to the western coast of the United States. Retired astronaut and former International Space Station commander Terry Virts shared a cautious but realistic perspective: he noted that the crew had to use the Moon’s gravitational force to maneuver during the mission, and being so far from Earth means there are limited options for emergency rescue if something unforeseen occurs.
NASA’s science lead, Dr. Nicola Fox, stated that the astronauts prepared for many years for this important phase of the mission, working closely with NASA’s team to conduct a deep study of lunar science. The Artemis-2 mission crew includes three American astronauts — Reid Wiseman, Christina Koch, and Victor Glover — and Canadian astronaut Jeremy Hansen. Their research on lunar water and mineral resources could significantly influence future human habitation on the Moon.