Humans are going back to the Moon! Learn about NASA's Artemis III mission and how it will land the first woman and person of color on the lunar surface.
1Why Return to the Moon?
It has been over 50 years since humans last walked on the Moon during Apollo 17. The Artemis program aims to establish a sustainable presence on the lunar surface, using it as a stepping stone for future Mars missions. This time, we are going to stay.
- Establish a lunar base camp for long-term research
- Test technologies needed for Mars exploration
- Search for water ice at the lunar south pole
- Inspire the next generation of explorers
2Meet the Artemis III Crew
NASA will announce the crew members for Artemis III in the coming months. What we know is that this historic mission will include the first woman and first person of color to walk on the Moon. These astronauts are currently training for the challenges of lunar exploration.
Talk with your kids about how space exploration has become more inclusive. Everyone can dream of becoming an astronaut, regardless of gender or background!
3The Journey to the Moon
Artemis III will launch on NASA's powerful Space Launch System rocket. After reaching orbit, the Orion spacecraft will dock with the Starship Human Landing System. Two astronauts will then descend to the lunar surface while two remain in orbit, spending about a week conducting experiments and exploring.
- Day 1-3: Journey from Earth to lunar orbit
- Day 4-10: Surface operations at the south pole
- Day 11-13: Return journey to Earth
- Total mission duration: Approximately 30 days
4What They Will Do on the Moon
The Artemis III astronauts will conduct multiple moonwalks, collecting samples and testing new spacesuits. They will search for water ice in permanently shadowed craters, which could be used for drinking water and rocket fuel. Every discovery will help us understand the Moon better and prepare for longer missions.
Create a "Moon Mission Bingo" card with your kids! Include activities like "collect rock samples," "plant flag," "take photos," and mark them off as you watch mission updates.
