NASA Artemis II to return on Earth: Date, timings, mission details and how to watch it live
Follow UsMission set to return to Earth with splashdown timing announced.
Astronauts completed Moon journey with tests and observations.
Live stream available for viewers to watch the landing.
NASA’s Artemis II is all set to return back to the mainland after completing its mission of going around the Moon. The astronauts spent a few days studying the Moon, taking pictures, and doing important tests in space. This will be an important milestone for the space agency on its way to once again send astronauts to the moon. After completing their assignment, the astronauts will be preparing for re-entry into the Earth’s atmosphere for a splashdown landing into the ocean. The eyes of millions of space fans around the world are eagerly following the mission’s progress.
SurveyWhen is Artemis II returning to Earth?
According to NASA, Artemis II is expected to return on April 10, 2026. The Orion spacecraft is scheduled to splash down in the Pacific Ocean near San Diego at around 8:07 PM EDT (April 11, 2026, 5:37 AM IST). The space agency will continue to share updates on timing and landing details through its official platforms as the spacecraft approaches Earth.
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Artemis II mission details
Artemis II was set to test systems that would be necessary for future trips to the Moon by sending crew members on a trip around the Moon. Throughout their voyage, the crew got close-up views of the moon, including its far side, taking photos of the moon’s surface in the process. The team members experienced some unique sightings, including the Milky Way. These efforts will help NASA better prepare for upcoming missions that plan to land humans on the Moon again.
What will happen to Artemis II after it splashes down?
After NASA’s Artemis II lands in the Pacific Ocean, a special recovery team from the U.S. Navy and NASA will begin bringing the crew back safely. Divers will first secure the Orion capsule so it stays steady in the water.
After that, the astronauts will exit the spacecraft and will be transported by helicopter to a nearby naval ship. After they are safely inside, doctors will quickly check their health. Once the crew is safe, the capsule will be picked up and brought onto the navy ship.
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Eventually, the capsule will be transported to Kennedy Space Center for inspection purposes. The astronauts will be extensively interviewed to prepare for the following mission, Artemis III.
Where can I watch the Artemis II splashdown live?
People in India can watch the Artemis II splashdown live on April 11, 2026, at about 5:37 AM IST. The live stream will start around 4:00 AM IST. You can watch it on NASA’s official website, NASA+, YouTube, Amazon Prime, or Netflix.
