On November 20, 2024, NASA's Artemis I mission successfully completed its flyby of the Moon, marking a significant milestone in lunar exploration. The Orion spacecraft, launched on November 16, 2024, executed a close approach to the Moon, coming within 130 kilometers of its surface.
During the flyby, Orion captured high-resolution images of the lunar surface and collected valuable data on the Moon's gravitational field. This information is crucial for future missions, including Artemis II, which aims to carry astronauts around the Moon.
The mission's primary objective is to test the spacecraft's systems in deep space, ensuring its readiness for crewed flights. NASA plans to use the data gathered during this flyby to refine navigation and operational procedures for upcoming missions.
Artemis I is part of NASA's broader Artemis program, which seeks to establish a sustainable human presence on the Moon and prepare for future crewed missions to Mars.