MISSION TRACKER

SLS launches from Kennedy Space Center Pad 39B, carrying Orion with 4 astronauts. After reaching orbit, ICPS performs the TLI burn to send Orion toward the Moon.

Orion separates from ICPS, deploys solar arrays. Crew performs initial systems checks and settles into the spacecraft for the long coast to the Moon.

Systems checkout continues. Crew tests Orion's life support, communication systems, and navigation. First images of Earth from deep space.

Possible midcourse correction burn. Crew continues adapting to the deep space environment. Distance from Earth: ~200,000 km.

Orion enters the lunar sphere of influence. The Moon's gravity begins to dominate. Final preparations for lunar flyby.

Orion approaches the Moon, passing behind the far side. Brief loss of signal as the spacecraft is occulted by the Moon. The crew sees the lunar far side up close.

Orion reaches its farthest point from Earth: ~392,000 km, surpassing 7,600 km beyond the Moon. The crew sets a new distance record, passing Apollo 13's 400,171 km mark from Earth.

Return trajectory established. Orion begins the long coast back to Earth. Crew conducts additional systems tests for the return leg.

Continued return coast. Crew prepares for re-entry procedures. Final deep space activities before approaching Earth.

Orion approaches Earth. Service module separation. Heat shield orientation. The crew prepares for the most critical phase: re-entry at 40,000 km/h.

Orion splashes down in the Pacific Ocean. USS Portland recovery ship retrieves the crew module. The Artemis II crew returns to Earth as heroes who opened the door back to the Moon.