The Artemis II mission is set to launch in April 2026, and astronomy enthusiasts can’t wait to watch NASA’s first crewed moon mission in over five decades. The crew, however, will not land on the moon; the purpose of the Artemis II flyby is to test the Orion spacecraft and pave the way for future lunar surface landings.

According to the agency, Artemis II is also expected to help us understand how space travel affects a human’s mind, body and overall behavior. Research from this mission will help NASA improve protocols and interventions to protect future astronauts. In the days leading up to the Artemis II launch, the crew is in isolation to prevent illnesses.

Get all the details on the upcoming Artemis II launch here!

When Does Artemis 2 Launch?

The Artemis II launch date was set for Wednesday, April 1, according to NASA.

If inclement or poor weather conditions impact the launch, NASA is prepared to launch the crew anywhere between April 2 and April 6, 2026.

Action. Wonder. Adventure. Artemis II has got it all. Don't miss the moment. Our crewed Moon mission will launch as early as April 1.

Learn how to watch: https://t.co/fAg0bGAqEc pic.twitter.com/2uhg8EhwTv

— NASA (@NASA) March 30, 2026

What Time Can I Watch the Artemis 2 Launch?

NASA announced a projected launch time for Artemis II at 6:24 p.m. ET on April 1. The agency also shared a link to watch the countdown to the launch.

Where Do I Watch the Artemis 2 Launch?

NASA is offering a free livestream throughout the day on its streaming service, NASA+. Viewers can also watch the coverage of the launch on NASA’s YouTube channel and via Amazon Prime.

Who Are the Astronauts From Artemis 2?

The Artemis II crew consists of NASA astronauts Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover and Christina Koch, and CSA (Canadian Space Agency) astronaut Jeremy Hansen.

The crew is set to make history as the first woman (Koch), Black man (Glover) and Canadian (Hansen) will travel near the moon. They are also the first humans to orbit the moon since Apollo 17 in 1972.

How Long Is the Artemis 2 Mission?

The crew of Artemis II is scheduled for a 10-day space travel. They are not landing on the moon.