NASA targets March for first moon mission by Artemis astronauts after fueling test success - AP News
AP News
February 20, 2026
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NASA has set its sights on March for the first Artemis moon mission, following the successful completion of a critical fueling test of its Space Launch System (SLS) rocket. This uncrewed mission, known as Artemis I, marks a significant milestone in the agency's ambitious plan to return humans to the lunar surface and establish a sustainable presence on the Moon. The target date reflects NASA's progress after overcoming technical challenges, including hydrogen leak issues during earlier attempts to fuel the rocket.
The Artemis program aims to send astronauts back to the Moon by 2025, with the March mission serving as a crucial precursor to future crewed flights. The SLS rocket and Orion spacecraft will be launched from Kennedy Space Center in Florida. This test flight will gather vital data on the systems' performance, including how they handle the harsh conditions of deep space travel. Success in this phase is essential for ensuring the safety and reliability of future missions that will carry astronauts to the Moon.
The delay in the original launch timeline was caused by recurring issues with the rocket's fueling process, which required meticulous troubleshooting. However, the recent test has given NASA confidence in its readiness to proceed. The mission will also demonstrate the capabilities of new technologies designed to support long-term lunar exploration and potential missions to Mars.
For readers interested in space exploration, this milestone highlights the ongoing advancements in human spaceflight and the United States' commitment to leading global efforts in deep-space travel. The success of Artemis I is not only a testament to NASA's engineering expertise but also a source of inspiration for future generations of scientists and explorers. As
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Originally published on AP News on 2/20/2026