Artemis II astronauts begin historic mission around the moon

NASA is taking another major step in space exploration as the Artemis II mission successfully begins its journey around the moon.

(CNN)- NASA is taking another major step in space exploration as the Artemis II mission successfully begins its journey around the moon.

“We have just completed the translunar injection burn. Preliminary reports of a good burn,” mission control confirmed.

In simple terms, that means the spacecraft has reached the speed needed to break free from Earth’s orbit and head toward the moon.

The four-person crew — including commander Reid Wiseman — is on a 10-day mission designed to pave the way for future lunar landings.

“My body is getting reacclimated, it’s been a few years since I’ve been up here,” Wiseman said.

Astronauts say the ride into space went smoother than expected.

“We all expected a really dynamic ride… and it was very smooth,” said mission specialist Christina Koch.

The Artemis II crew will travel around the moon — Earth’s only natural satellite — marking the first time humans have left low-Earth orbit since Apollo 17 mission in 1972.

“Humanity has once again shown what we are capable of,” said mission specialist Jeremy Hansen.

The mission is seen as a critical step toward future lunar surface operations and eventual missions to Mars.

The crew is expected to return to Earth on April 10th.