Current planning and target phases
Artemis 2 is set to be the first crewed flight of NASA’s Orion spacecraft and the Space Launch System (SLS) rocket. As of the latest program reviews, Artemis 2 remains in the planning and preparation phase, with launch timelines contingent on completion of final testing, processing, and mission reviews. The mission will send astronauts on a lunar flyby, demonstrating core Orion and SLS performance before Artemis 3 lands astronauts on the Moon. Official target dates are periodically updated following Joint Program Office and independent review panel assessments.
Key program definition
Artemis 2 is defined as a crewed integrated flight test that will validate Orion life support, communications, navigation, and SLS operations in deep space. It follows uncrewed Artemis 1 and precedes Artemis 3, which aims to land the first woman and first person of color on the Moon. The mission is managed by NASA’s Exploration Program, with major contributions from international partners for Orion European Service Module and crew systems. Launch occurs from Kennedy Space Center Launch Complex 39B.
Mission objectives and profile
- First crewed flight of Orion and SLS
- Lunar flyby with astronauts aboard
- Demonstration of critical life support and operations
- Pathfinder for Artemis 3 surface missions
Recent verified milestones and reviews
In 2023 and 2024, the Artemis 2 mission completed a range of reviews, including the Flight Readiness Review (FRR) and the Test Readiness Review, confirming hardware delivery and test completion for core stage, boosters, and Orion. The Core Stage Green Run at Stennis Space Center concluded successfully, and the assembled SLS rocket was transported to Launch Complex 39B for wet dress rehearsals. These milestones provide the technical foundation required before the launch decision.
Critical tests and preparations
- Core stage Green Run at Stennis
- SLS rollout to LC-39B and wet dress rehearsal
- Orion spacecraft integration and testing
- Crew suit assessments and displays training
The outcomes of these activities feed into formal launch commit criteria, which require completion of all tests, review boards, and readiness approvals. Program managers communicate that these steps are necessary to reach a verified launch target rather than speculative public dates.
Official timeline indicators and tracking
While specific public targets shift with review outcomes, the program maintains defined milestone indicators. When Artemis 2 is confirmed to be set to launch, it will follow a declared launch window based on orbital mechanics, range constraints, and crew schedules. Tracking these indicators is best done through official NASA sources, ensuring any update reflects a reviewed and verified change rather than projections.
| Attribute | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Mission | Artemis 2 | NASA |
| Type | Crewed lunar flyby | NASA |
| Launch Vehicle | Space Launch System (Block 1) | NASA |
| Spacecraft | Orion Crew Module | NASA / ESA |
| Launch Site | Kennedy Space Center, LC-39B | NASA |
| Status Indicators | Review completion, test successful, launch window defined | Program Milestones |
| Typical Planning Horizon | Multi-year timeline with periodic public updates | Program Baseline |
How to identify an official update
Because timelines can change, distinguish between news speculation and verified changes. An official Artemis 2 update will reference a formal review, such as a Launch Readiness Review or a Programmatic Change Control Board decision, and will be published on nasa.gov Artemis pages or announced via NASA TV. These announcements include updated dates, revised launch windows, and explicit reasoning when delays are required. Treat unofficial sources as indicative, not definitive.
Prepare for launch when confirmed
When Artemis 2 is set to launch, public access to mission documentation will increase, including detailed press kits, launch timelines, and viewing information. If you are planning to follow the mission, prepare by bookmarking official NASA channels, verifying dates against primary sources, and understanding that crewed flight tests operate with rigorous review gates. Each gate ensures crew safety and mission success before moving to the next phase.