NASA to Discuss Artemis Acceleration, Status of Upcoming Moon Missions
NASA will brief the media on October 23 about accelerating its Artemis Moon return plans, including the 2028 lunar surface goal and the upcoming Artemis III orbital test mission scheduled for next year.
NASA will host a media update at Kennedy Space Center on October 23 at 2 p.m. EDT to outline progress toward landing astronauts on the Moon by 2028. The briefing will cover Artemis III, which is planned to send four astronauts into low Earth orbit next year to validate systems required for future lunar landings. U.S. journalists must register online by October 16 at 12 p.m. EDT to attend in person or request dial-in details from the Kennedy newsroom by email at least one hour before the event.
The briefing will also provide an overview of NASA’s broader Moon-to-Mars strategy, including plans to establish a sustained human presence near the lunar South Pole. The agency aims to use Artemis missions to expand scientific exploration and economic opportunities while building the foundation for eventual crewed missions to Mars. Remote participation will be facilitated for journalists who cannot attend in person.
NASA’s Artemis program represents a key element of its long-term exploration goals, following the successful Artemis I uncrewed test flight and ahead of the crewed Artemis II lunar flyby mission. The agency has emphasized the program’s role in advancing lunar science and technology while fostering international and commercial partnerships.
The update comes as NASA refines timelines and technical approaches to meet the 2028 Moon landing target, with Artemis III serving as a critical stepping stone for subsequent surface missions. The briefing will include details on how the agency is addressing technical, logistical, and safety challenges associated with the accelerated schedule.