Artemis II releases Earthset images during return phase
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HOUSTON — NASA's Artemis II crew released 'Earthset' photographs during their return from a record-setting lunar flyby on April 7, capturing Earth setting behind the Moon and recording audio and imagery from the Orion capsule while more than 4,000 miles beyond the lunar surface.
The four-person U.S.-Canadian crew — Reid Wiseman, Christina Koch, Victor Glover and Jeremy Hansen — are scheduled to splash down in the Pacific on April 10; NASA and scientists this week began downlink analysis of imagery and telemetry to inform follow-on Artemis missions.
More context
Timeline
- 1. December 1968 — Apollo 8 captures Earthrise during first human lunar orbit.
- 2. Early April 2026 — Artemis II conducts lunar flyby including far-side pass and observations.
- 3. April 7, 2026 — NASA releases 'Earthset' photographs and posts images publicly.
- 4. April 7–9, 2026 — Teams downlink and begin analyzing imagery and audio via optical and radio links.
- 5. April 10, 2026 — Artemis II splashdown scheduled in the Pacific to conclude mission.
Why it matters
This lunar flyby is a big leap for space exploration. It's about more than just cool photos. It's about understanding our universe better. If you've got a curious kid or grandkid, share the 'Earthset' images with them. Spark a conversation about the wonders of space.
Sources
JQJO Editorial Desk · Human reviewed · AI assisted. Report a correction.
