A key step in the Artemis II mission has been completed with the integration of the Orion spacecraft, manufactured by Lockheed Martin, with the Space Launch System (SLS) rocket at the Kennedy Space Center in Florida. This milestone marks the start of the final preparation phase for the crewed lunar mission, which is scheduled for early 2026.
On 19 October, Orion, which the crew have named Integrity, was placed on top of the SLS in the Vehicle Assembly Building. This brings the Artemis programme closer to its second flight, which will be the first to carry astronauts, over 50 years after the last manned lunar mission.
Sean Duffy, acting administrator of NASA, noted: “The integration of Orion and SLS is a crucial step in resuming American leadership in lunar exploration.”
Following docking, the teams will carry out electrical and data tests, as well as umbilical connection checks between the spacecraft and the rocket. They will then move to Launch Pad 39B for a dress rehearsal in 2026.
The ten-day Artemis II mission is an important step in establishing a sustainable presence on the Moon, paving the way for future Artemis III and IV missions.
Designed by Lockheed Martin, the Orion spacecraft is the most advanced for flights beyond Earth’s orbit, ensuring both safety and mission performance.
Photo: Source: Lockheed Martin via
Photo: Source: ESA
