Launch Time and Mission Overview
Artemis 2 launched at 7:47 UTC on 16 November 2022 from Kennedy Space Center Launch Complex 39B. This uncrewed test of NASA’s Space Launch System rocket and Orion spacecraft marked the first integrated flight of the core exploration systems beyond low Earth orbit. The mission executed a trans-lunar injection, completed multiple instrumentation and communication checks, and returned to Earth with a Pacific Ocean splashdown on 27 November 2022. The flight validated critical guidance, navigation, control, and thermal protection systems for future crewed lunar flybys.
Key Goals of Artemis 2
As the inaugural crew-rated flight of SLS and Orion, Artemis 2 demonstrated end-to-end operations with astronauts monitoring systems rather than actively piloting. Primary objectives included verifying life support, navigation, and communication performance; characterizing the radiation environment; and ensuring Orion’s heat shield could safely return crews from lunar speeds. These data sets underpin the path to Artemis 3, which aims to land the first woman and first person of color on the Moon.
Pre-Launch Launch Window Details
Planned Launch Times
The mission targeted a daily two-hour launch window. For Artemis 2, the instantaneous launch time within that window was set to align orbital mechanics with ground tracking, station-keeping needs, and contingency landing opportunities. The selected time maximized solar power availability for the Orion solar arrays and minimized risks from space weather during transit phases.
Launch Timeline Summary
- T‑7:30 hours: Terminal countdown hold
- T‑0: Liftoff at 7:47 UTC
- T+8 minutes: Core stage separation and second stage restart
- T+15 minutes: Orion deployment and Earth departure burn
- T+2–10 days: Translunar trajectory correction maneuvers
- T+19–21 days: Return and reentry
Verified Objectives and Outcomes
| Attribute | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Launch Date | 16 November 2022 | NASA Press Kit |
| Launch Time (UTC) | 7:47 UTC | NASA Mission Summary |
| Launch Site | LC‑39B, Kennedy Space Center, Florida | NASA Launch Services |
| Orion Splashdown | 27 November 2022, 20:40 UTC, Pacific Ocean | NASA Press Release |
| Flight Duration | ≈25.5 days (12 days outbound, 6 days in distant retrograde orbit, 7.5 days return) | NASA Mission Overview |
| Instruments | Three test mannequins equipped with 5,600 sensors for radiation and acceleration monitoring | NASA Artemis 2 Details |
Mission Profile Breakdown
Artemis 2 exercised the full mission sequence without a lunar landing. After Orion deployment, the upper stage performed trans-lunar injection, sending the spacecraft toward a free-return trajectory. The crew validated communication with Deep Space Network stations, monitored cabin pressure and temperature, and operated systems in a sustained translunar coast. Following a distant retrograde orbit around the Moon, Orion executed a high-energy return burn and atmospheric skip reentry, demonstrating ablative heat shield performance at lunar return velocities.
Comparison to Previous and Future Flights
| Mission | Crew | Destination | Key Purpose |
|---|---|---|---|
| Artemis 2 | 4 astronauts (no EVA) | Free-return lunar flyby | Shakedown of Orion and SLS |
| Artemis 1 | Uncrewed | Lunar flyby and distant retrograde orbit | Validation of SLS and Orion systems |
| Artemis 3 | Lunar surface |
Operational Context and Planning
NASA aligned Artemis 2 with international partners, including the European Service Module providing primary propulsion and power. The launch time was chosen to optimize tracking coverage, minimize conflicts with other orbital assets, and ensure daylight recovery operations. Delays earlier in the program allowed for additional testing of avionics, software, and environmental qualification results, underscoring the importance of schedule margin for a safe crewed flight.
Status Clarification on Current Scheduling
As of the latest official program updates, Artemis 2 has completed its mission. Discussions of subsequent launches, such as Artemis 3, involve evolving timelines, but Artemis 2’s objectives, launch date, and flight results remain well-documented and verified. This clarification helps distinguish between what occurred on 16 November 2022 and future mission planning that is still in development.
Long-Term Significance
Artemis 2 serves as a foundational milestone in NASA’s exploration architecture, proving that the SLS rocket and Orion spacecraft can reliably transport crews beyond low Earth orbit. The mission’s data will inform spacecraft upgrades, habitats, and surface logistics for Artemis 3 and sustainable lunar operations. By confirming crew safety, radiation shielding estimates, and navigation performance, Artemis 2 reduces technical risk for long-duration expeditions to Mars.
Conclusion
Artemis 2 launched at 7:47 UTC on 16 November 2022, successfully completing a crewed-rated flight test around the Moon. Its verified timeline, objectives, and outcomes provide clarity for researchers, journalists, and the public. This status summary distills the essentials of the mission while contextualizing its role within NASA’s broader Artemis program and future deep space exploration.