a2_mission_trajectory_vert_1920p60.mp4
Summary: This video simulates the Artemis II mission's trajectory around Earth and the Moon over several days in April 2026.
This animated simulation showcases the planned trajectory of the Artemis II mission. Starting on April 2, 2026, the spacecraft is shown departing from Earth, performing an initial loop around the planet. It then travels towards the Moon, executes a lunar flyby, and uses the Moon's gravity for a return trajectory towards Earth. The video provides a dynamic, top-down view of the spacecraft's path relative to Earth and the Moon, with a timestamp indicating the date and time of the mission's progress.
Playback guide
1. timestamp: 00:00 label: Artemis II begins its trajectory near Earth (02 Apr 2026 06:26). 2. timestamp: 00:03 label: Artemis II completes an initial loop around Earth (03 Apr 2026 02:03). 3. timestamp: 00:07 label: Artemis II extends its trajectory away from Earth, heading towards the Moon's orbit (04 Apr 2026 04:13). 4. timestamp: 00:10 label: The Moon's orbit becomes visible, and Artemis II approaches it (04 Apr 2026 23:50). 5. timestamp: 00:18 label: Artemis II performs a close lunar flyby, beginning its slingshot maneuver around the Moon (07 Apr 2026 04:10). 6. timestamp: 00:23 label: Artemis II completes the lunar flyby and begins its return path towards Earth (08 Apr 2026 12:52). 7. timestamp: 00:32 label: Artemis II continues its return journey, approaching Earth's vicinity (10 Apr 2026 23:44).