
When you buy through links on our articles, Future and its syndication partners may earn a commission.
NASA's Artemis program represents the most ambitious human spaceflight effort since Apollo, aiming not only to return astronauts to the moon but also to establish a long-term presence that will pave the way for crewed Mars exploration.
The hardware that will fly the astronauts moonward includes two 177-foot-tall (54 meters) twin boosters that are the backbone of the giant Space Launch System (SLS) rocket's launch power. Recently, the two boosters that will fly on the Artemis 2 mission had an "America 250" emblem painted on their sides, in honor of the upcoming. 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.
What is it?
Artemis 2, scheduled to launch in early 2026, will be the first crewed mission of the program. Over a 10-day journey, NASA astronauts Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover and Christina Koch, along with Canadian Space Agency astronaut Jeremy Hansen, will travel around the moon and return to Earth. Their mission will test Artemis systems, procedures and spacecraft in preparation for future lunar landings.
Artemis 2 relies on two key vehicles: SLS, which is NASA's most powerful rocket to date, and the Orion spacecraft, designed to carry astronauts safely beyond low Earth orbit. Inside NASA's iconic Vehicle Assembly Building (VAB) at Kennedy Space Center (KSC) in Florida, these elements come together through a massive, carefully choreographed preparation effort.
Where is it?
The image was taken from inside the Vehicle Assembly Building at KSC.
Why is it amazing?
For Artemis 2, the "America 250" represents NASA's celebration of the anniversary under the theme "Spirit of Innovation." Just as the U.S. was founded on bold ideas and transformative thinking, Artemis 2 embodies a new era of exploration that looks outward, to the moon, Mars and beyond.
Seeing the emblem on the boosters connects technological progress with national heritage, according to NASA. It serves as a reminder that spaceflight, for all its complexity, is also a cultural project, one that captures imagination, inspires generations and reflects shared aspirations.
Want to learn more?
You can learn more about the Artemis program and upcoming Artemis 2 launch.
LATEST POSTS
- 1
Solar storms can trigger auroras on Earth. This star’s explosion could destroy a planet’s atmosphere - 2
Sheinelle Jones will cohost fourth hour of 'Today' with Jenna Bush Hager: Here's what to know about her - 3
Key Little Things That Advantage Old People - 4
At least 490 protesters killed in Iran, activists say - 5
Study shows no clear link between low-fat dairy and dementia risk
National health ranking puts Georgia near bottom of list. Here's why
Shredded cheese recall: Multiple brands sold at Aldi, Target and Walmart affected over potential metal fragment contamination
A definitive Manual for the 5 Off-road Bicycles Available
Manual for Famous Beverages 2024
Insurance warning signs in doctors’ offices might discourage patients from speaking openly about their health
Damaged launch pad: How long before Russia can send astronauts to the ISS again?
Vote in favor of the Web-based Work out schedule to Keep You Fit and Sound
‘The White Lotus’ sparked online interest in risky anxiety pills, study says
Pfizer says patient dies after receiving hemophilia drug in trial











