NASA has begun the final tests for the Artemis 2 mission, the first with a human crew to the Moon since 1972 until now.

NASA is approaching the launch of the Artemis 2 mission, the first with a human crew to the Moon since 1972, scheduled for February 6. The Space Launch System (SLS) rocket and the Orion capsule have been transported to Launch Pad 39B for final tests. The mission will last approximately 10 days and will include a crew of four astronauts: Reid Wiseman (commander), Victor Glover (pilot), Christina Koch, and Jeremy Hansen (mission specialist).

Before the launch, NASA will check the rocket's systems, including emergency evacuation and communications. Although February 6 is the primary date, the agency has alternative dates in February, March, and April. Artemis 2 will test all the systems necessary for future lunar missions, without landing, and will take the crew to a record altitude of 8,889 km above the Moon. After the mission, the data will be analyzed to prepare for Artemis 3, planned for 2027.