Why isn’t Artemis II landing on the Moon?

NASA’s most powerful rocket has launched the first crewed lunar mission since 1969. However, this mission—Artemis II—is not set to touch down on the Moon’s surface. The program is using this orbiting journey as a crucial phase to refine technologies and procedures for future landings planned by 2028. BBC correspondent Arunday Mukharji is stationed in Florida for the launch. Video editing by Alex Foster.

Artemis II’s Role in Lunar Ambitions

Artemis II serves as a preparatory step for the first crewed Moon landing since Apollo 11. While the mission will test spacecraft systems in deep space, it avoids the surface to focus on endurance and safety protocols. The next phase, Artemis III, aims to achieve a sustained presence on the lunar terrain by 2028. Follow BBC’s live coverage of Artemis II here.

Other News from the Artemis Mission

Outside the Supreme Court, protesters and attendees gathered to voice concerns about President Donald Trump’s executive order. Meanwhile, rising fuel costs linked to the Iran conflict have pushed US gas prices above $4 for the first time since 2022. BBC’s Gary O’Donoghue spoke with a farmer in Alabama, who remains loyal to Trump despite economic challenges.

Protests and Public Reactions

Large demonstrations against the Trump administration occurred in multiple US cities, with the third No Kings rally drawing attention to Bill 21, the province’s secularism law. At the National Mall, an installation called “A throne fit for a king” highlighted critiques of White House renovations. Simultaneously, the New York City airport faced prolonged delays as TSA agents operated without pay during a government shutdown.

Collisions and Safety Concerns

A passenger plane collided with a firefighting vehicle on a runway at New York’s airport, raising questions about safety. BBC Verify analyzed the moments before the crash. The incident occurred as an Air Canada flight, carrying 72 passengers, landed from Montreal. No injuries were reported by Valero, the refinery operator. A yellow Labrador named Tessie, who fell into a sinkhole, was unharmed and returned to her yard after rescue crews addressed the issue.

Political and Cultural Developments

At the annual CPAC conference in Texas, conservatives expressed mixed views on the current economy. The White House hosted a summit on artificial intelligence, education, and safeguarding children online. Meanwhile, a Hollywood action star, known for his 1972 role in *Way of the Dragon* alongside Bruce Lee, passed away at 86. The US National Weather Service warned of a heatwave expanding eastward in the coming days.

“In her first interview since the disappearance, Savannah Guthrie described the moment she learned her mother was missing and questioned whether her fame might have made her a target.”

Government Shutdown Impact

Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents were deployed to assist TSA during the partial shutdown. The delay at the airport underscored broader logistical strains on US infrastructure. As the Supreme Court deliberates on Bill 21, Muslim women have highlighted the personal toll of the law, citing significant sacrifices.