Why We Fly | Defector

"We will explore. We will build. We will build ships. We will visit again. We will construct science outposts. We will drive rovers. We will do radio astronomy. We will found companies. We will bolster industry. We will inspire. But ultimately, we will always choose Earth. We will always choose each other."

"The astronauts were observing the lunar surface, and identified a pair of unnamed craters, possibly unseen before by human eyes, residing as they do in the borderlands between the near and far sides of the Moon."

"It was an extraordinarily human moment. Humanity feels a little more tangible when surrounded by nothing but machines and darkness; Wiseman's is a soft beating heart in a big black void that has carried everything, even its grief, farther than any heart has ever been."

The Artemis astronauts conducted scientific observations and shared emotional moments during their mission. Christina Koch emphasized that Artemis is just the beginning of exploration, stating that humanity will always choose Earth and each other. The crew identified unnamed craters on the Moon, requesting to name them Integrity and Carroll in honor of Commander Reid Wiseman's late wife. This moment highlighted the human experience amidst the vastness of space, showcasing the emotional connections that persist even in the darkness of the cosmos.

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