The maneuver placed the spacecraft on a figure-of-eight trajectory that will take the astronauts farther into space than any humans before, while also giving them a view of the Moon’s far side. Artemis II pilot Victor Glover used the moment to share a message of unity from orbit, describing humanity as “one people.” The mission also marks an important moment for Europe’s space sector, as Orion’s propulsion is provided by the European Service Module. During a nearly 10-day journey, the crew will test steering and alignment procedures that could help pave the way for future lunar missions and eventual Moon landings.
