Main Engine Cut Off T+327: Artemis II, the Lunar Flyby Edition (with Paul Fjeld)
Apr 7, 2026
Paul Fjeld, a space artist with NASA and Smithsonian ties from the Apollo era, reflects on Artemis II and lunar history. He marvels at live crew moments, contrasts Apollo media with today’s streaming, and discusses human vision vs cameras. They debate Gateway and NRHO, lunar navigation advances, mission cadence, and the politics and hardware needed to return to the Moon.
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Growing Up Inside Apollo As An Artist
- Paul Fjeld grew up during Apollo and later embedded in the program as an artist, giving him both fan and insider perspectives.
- He attended Apollo 15, joined the NASA art program, worked up to mission control, and later worked for the Canadian space agency in communications.
Crew Openness Creates Public Intimacy
- Modern crew openness makes the public feel like passengers; Artemis II astronauts invited viewers into emotional moments.
- Paul contrasts Apollo's reserved pilots with Artemis II's candid crew, citing naming craters and sharing personal loss as connection points.
Human Eyes Add Scientific Value
- Astronauts provide scientific value beyond instruments because human vision detects subtle color and texture that cameras and satellites miss.
- Paul notes descriptions of greens and browns at Orientale and how scientists will