Skip to content
topics.

Artemis II sees Moon’s far side, releases new Earth photos

scienceApr 5, 2026224,336

The Artemis II crew completed a lunar flyby and captured the Moon's far side during the pass. Astronauts beamed back striking new photos of Earth as they hurtled through space. The flight will also deliver a total solar eclipse view and set a new human distance record. The images and observations show progress for the Artemis program, test crewed deep-space operations, and provide new Earth and lunar data for science and public engagement.

Key Highlights

Artemis II crew reported first views of the Moon's far side during flyby.
Crew beamed back striking new photos of Earth during the lunar flyby.
Astronauts will see a total solar eclipse while setting a new distance record.
3 sources
bbc.comArtemis II crew see first glimpse of far side of Moon [video]nypost.comArtemis II crew is releasing absolutely gobsmacking new photos of Earthkare11.comArtemis II crew will see total solar eclipse during moon flyby

Related

Artemis II Lunar Flyby Set for Today, NASA Live Coverage PlannedscienceArtemis II sees Moon’s far side, releases new Earth photosscience