NASA's crewed rocket lifts off to begin 10-day lunar journey - and here are the four astronauts on board

"NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman stated that the launch was an opening act for subsequent missions, which will include the construction of a moon base to support an enduring presence on the lunar surface."

"The Artemis II mission is the debut crewed test flight in the Artemis program, marking the first time astronauts have ventured into the vicinity of the moon in 53 years."

"NASA is targeting 2028 for Artemis IV, which aims to achieve the first-ever landing of astronauts on the moon's South Pole, ahead of China's planned crewed mission in 2030."

The Artemis II mission launched successfully, carrying a crew of three U.S. astronauts and one Canadian astronaut into Earth orbit. This mission is a critical step towards future moon landings, with plans for a moon base to support human presence. The crew will conduct a nearly 10-day expedition around the moon, marking the first crewed test flight in the Artemis program. NASA aims to land astronauts on the moon's South Pole by 2028, competing with China's planned lunar mission in 2030.

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