NASA has reaffirmed its commitment to sending astronauts around the Moon in early 2026, as part of its ambitious Artemis program. The mission, called Artemis 2, is set to launch between February and April 2026, after facing multiple delays in recent years.

Lakiesha Hawkins, a senior NASA official, assured in a press briefing that the timeline remains intact. She stressed that the agency is determined to keep its promise and ensure all systems are fully ready before launch.

The crew for Artemis 2 includes three American astronauts and one Canadian, marking the first time in over 50 years that humans will orbit the Moon. However, this mission will not involve a lunar landing. That historic step is reserved for Artemis 3, which is planned for a later date.

The Artemis program represents the United States’ renewed push to establish a long-term human presence on the Moon. It also comes amid growing competition from China, which has announced plans to send astronauts to the lunar surface by 2030. Both nations are investing heavily in what has been described as a “new space race.”

Former US President Donald Trump, who originally announced the Artemis program during his first term, has continued to push for rapid progress during his second term. His administration views lunar exploration as a critical milestone toward even bigger ambitions, including a future crewed mission to Mars.

NASA officials have emphasized that safety remains their top priority. Hawkins explained that while there is a strong desire to be the first nation to return to the Moon, the agency’s ultimate responsibility is to ensure that astronauts complete their mission securely.

If successful, Artemis 2 will pave the way for a new era of space exploration. The mission is also expected to set the foundation for permanent bases on the lunar surface, which could serve as stepping stones for future interplanetary travel.