WASHINGTON DC: Nasa’s Artemis II mission, the first crewed journey around the Moon in more than 50 years, has successfully lifted off following a spectacular launch.
Shortly after take-off, the rocket’s solid boosters separated as planned, allowing the spacecraft to enter orbit around Earth. Astronaut Reid Wiseman described the moment as offering a “great view,” noting an impressive Moonrise soon after launch, according to BBC.
The mission, which will last around 10 days, will not involve a lunar landing but will see the crew travel around the Moon and venture farther from Earth than any humans before. Four astronauts are onboard, traveling in a capsule roughly the size of a minibus.
Despite earlier technical concerns ahead of launch, the mission proceeded smoothly after receiving final clearance. Observers described the launch as powerful and awe-inspiring, with the force of liftoff physically felt by those nearby.
(Inputs from BBC)
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