‘It’s a special thing to be on Planet Earth’: Artemis crew welcomed home in Houston

Homecoming for Artemis II astronauts

Nasa’s Artemis II crew, comprising Commander Reid Wiseman, pilot Victor Glover, mission specialist Christina Koch, and Canadian astronaut Jeremy Hansen, returned to Earth after a nine-day journey around the Moon. Their arrival in Houston, Texas, marked a triumphant conclusion to the mission, which set new records for distance from the planet.

“It’s the most special thing I’ve ever experienced in my life,” said Wiseman, reflecting on the historic voyage. The astronauts were reunited with loved ones on Saturday, celebrating the completion of their orbital mission.

Other news highlights

Meanwhile, the first lady addressed claims of ties to a late convicted sex offender, insisting that “any links between the two need to end.” The incident occurred as she spoke to reporters following a warehouse fire that consumed stored toilet paper and paper towels.

A notable volcanic activity has been ongoing since December 2024, with one of the world’s most active volcanoes erupting intermittently. In a separate legal matter, Jasveen Sangha received a 15-year prison sentence for drug sales that contributed to the death of actor Matthew Perry.

Community and political events

Police in Tampa responded to a homeowner’s call after discovering a nine-foot alligator in his residence’s pool area. The creature was safely removed by a specialist. Meanwhile, the “Great Marshmallow Drop” event saw over 15,000 treats fall from a helicopter as children raced to collect them.

Political engagement continued as the BBC’s Gary O’Donoghue interviewed a farmer in Alabama who remained supportive of President Trump despite economic challenges. Large demonstrations against the Trump administration unfolded in cities nationwide, forming the third round of “No Kings” rallies.

Behind-the-scenes efforts

Nasa scientists engineered a new “universal waste management system” for the 10-day Artemis II mission, dubbed the space loo. Training for the flight commenced at the Johnson Space Center in Texas following the crew’s official selection in 2023.

The crew’s spacesuits were designed to safeguard astronauts during launch, landing, and potential emergencies. The National Mall hosted an art installation titled “A Throne Fit for a King,” critiquing White House renovations. Airport delays in the US reached record levels due to TSA agents working without pay during a partial government shutdown.

Public and political discourse

At the annual CPAC conference in Texas, conservatives shared mixed opinions on the current economy. The BBC’s Ione Wells engaged with protesters and attendees outside the Supreme Court during discussions on President Trump’s executive order. Leyla Khodabakhshi reported on preparations for the Artemis II mission in Florida.

Gas prices in the US surpassed $4 at the pump for the first time since 2022, driven by the ongoing Iran war. The average price climbed as fuel costs increased, impacting consumers nationwide.