WASHINGTON - The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) has announced updated timelines and technical adjustments for its Artemis lunar exploration program, targeting April 2026 for the Artemis II crewed test flight and mid-2027 for Artemis III. These changes follow investigations into heat shield performance during the Artemis I uncrewed mission and refinements to Orion spacecraft systems.
The Artemis I heat shield, which protects the capsule during re-entry, experienced unexpected material loss. NASA determined the cause was insufficient gas release from the Avcoat material, leading to cracking and detachment. While the Artemis II heat shield will incorporate adjustments, officials confirmed its ability to ensure crew safety.
"Throughout our process to investigate the heat shield phenomenon and determine a forward path, we've stayed true to NASA's core values; safety and data-driven analysis remained at the forefront," said Catherine Koerner, associate administrator, Exploration Systems Development Mission Directorate at NASA Headquarters in Washington. "The updates to our mission plans are a positive step toward ensuring we can safely accomplish our objectives at the Moon and develop the technologies and capabilities needed for crewed Mars missions."
Related: NASA awards Artemis contract for gateway logistics services to SpaceX
Artemis II will carry four astronauts, including Canadian astronaut Jeremy Hansen, on a 10-day mission around the Moon. This flight will test critical systems, such as air revitalization and manual flying capabilities, to prepare for future lunar and Mars missions.
"The Artemis campaign is the most daring, technically challenging international endeavor humanity has ever undertaken," said NASA Administrator Bill Nelson.
NASA continues to refine technologies, including the Space Launch System, Orion spacecraft, and lunar exploration systems, to support its long-term goals of sustainable Moon exploration and human Mars missions.
