Uncanny Valley | WIRED Artemis II Astronaut Reflects Upon Return
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Apr 17, 2026 
Victor Glover, NASA astronaut and pilot of Artemis II, who flew farther from Earth than any humans, reflects on life after return. He recalls the 40-minute far-side blackout and how the crew stayed grounded with humor and calm. He also walks through the intense risks and sensations of reentry and splashdown.
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Quiet Far Side Blackout Became Intense Human Moment
- Victor Glover describes passing behind the far side of the moon as a busy, intimate mission moment where they balanced science tasks with brief human gestures.
- He recorded observations, said a prayer aloud, joked with crewmates, and emphasized craving togetherness while out of contact with Earth.
Choosing Presence Over Immediate Processing
- Glover says he hasn't fully processed the mission emotionally and is intentionally pausing to be with family before journaling or debriefing.
- He prioritizes presence and slow reflection over immediately translating the experience into words or analysis.
Training Included Poetic And Operational Preparation
- The crew intentionally mixed poetic human communication with technical tasks, showing training covered cultural and creative moments as well as operations.
- Glover highlights the crew's adaptability to switch between artistic expression and precise mission work during critical phases.