13 Minutes Presents: Artemis II Artemis II: 5. No Going Back
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Apr 3, 2026 
Sian Cleaver, Airbus Defence and Space engineer behind the European Service Module, explains the module's engines, solar arrays and systems. Kristin Fisher, US space journalist reporting from Kennedy Space Center, adds on-the-ground perspective. They talk about the translunar injection, solar-panel flexing, Orion's life-support and radiation measures, and how international and commercial partners shape future lunar missions.
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Crew Share A Human Overview Effect Moment
- Victor Glover posted that despite TLI being successful their ultimate destination is always Earth, reflecting the crew's developing overview effect.
- Tim Peake noted the crew went from 115 miles altitude at ~24,000 mph to converting that speed into altitude as Earth grew smaller in their view.
Artemis Sequence Changed To Prove Docking First
- Artemis mission sequencing changed: Artemis 3 will stay in Earth orbit to demo docking with the human lander, while Artemis 4 will perform the lunar landing.
- This reshuffle aims to prove docking procedures and mature the human lander before committing to boots-on-Moon missions.
Monthly Robotic Supply Runs Will Build The Lunar Base
- Commercial robotic landers (CLPS) will provide frequent lunar deliveries to build infrastructure ahead of crewed bases.
- NASA expects monthly CLPS landings from 2027 to supply parts, science and logistics for a sustainable lunar presence.