NASA is preparing to launch Artemis II, its first crewed lunar mission in more than five decades, as early as February 6, 2026, with backup launch dates into March and April. This mission is a key step in NASA’s plan to return humans to the Moon and eventually send astronauts to Mars.
The spacecraft will carry four astronauts: NASA’s Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover, Christina Koch, and Jeremy Hansen from the Canadian Space Agency. The mission will last about 10 days. Unlike future missions, Artemis II will not land on the Moon but will fly around it, testing important systems like navigation, communication, and life support for future lunar landings.
NASA is also offering a unique opportunity for the public to send their names to the Moon. Anyone can register online for free, and submitted names will be stored on a digital card aboard the Orion spacecraft. After registration, participants will receive a digital boarding pass showing that their name will travel with the crew.
Registration is open until January 21, 2026. There are no age or nationality restrictions, so anyone—from students to space enthusiasts—can take part. NASA emphasizes that this is symbolic only; sending a name does not make someone an astronaut or give actual space travel rights.
This public initiative aims to inspire people around the world and connect them to this historic mission. Artemis II’s successful lunar flyby will pave the way for Artemis III, which plans to land humans on the Moon and build a sustained lunar presence.
With the launch approaching, Artemis II marks a historic moment in space exploration, inviting people everywhere to be part of humanity’s journey back to the Moon.
