Artemis II launch: NASA is just some hours away for its first moonshot in over a century. Anticipation is at its peak for the mission, which will send four astronauts on a ten day trip around the Moon and back, marking the first time humans have travelled to the Moon time since the Apollo missions.
Livemint brings you a complete guide on when, how to watch the launch online, or in person.
Artemis II launch time The launch window opens at 6:24 p.m. EDT on Wednesday, 1 April and will remain open for two hours, until 8:24 p.m. EDT.
If all aspects of Artemis II– including the countdown and pre-flight checks go as per the plan, NASA’s Space Launch System rocket will lift off from Kennedy Space Center right at 6:24 p.m. EDT, said NASA.
What happens if launch is delayed? In case the launch is pushed back, the next opportunity for launch will be on Thursday, 2 April – with another two-hour window starting at 7:22 p.m. EDT.
Where will Artemis II launch be visible in person? If skies are clear, people across much of Florida and parts of southeastern Georgia might able able to catch a glimpse of the rocket as it climbs into space—just by looking up at the right moment.
NASA has also shared a visibility map – detailing when it could be seen, typically between about 10 and 70 seconds after liftoff, depending on how far you are from the launch site.
For instance, if you are around Daytona Beach, Melbourne, Orlando – you might be able to see the rocket roaring up in the sky at around 20 seconds after the launch – shows NASA's visibility map.
Similarly, if you are around Jacksonville – you might be able to catch a glimpse around launch+40 seconds.
After 70 seconds from its launch, the rocket would no longer be in the visibility range. It is also important to note that visibility also depends on a lot of factors including local weather, states NASA.
View full Image View full Image Artemis II visibility launch
NASA also offers special viewing packages at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, but all tickets have already been sold out, mentioned a report by CBS News.
Where to watch Artemis II launch on TV? Multiple media houses are set to broadcast the live coverage of Artemis II launch.
You can also track the latest updates from Livemint's Artemis II live coverage
Where to watch Artemis II launch online? NASA’s launch coverage is set to begin early, giving viewers a behind-the-scenes look at preparations. Starting at 7:45 a.m. EDT, you can tune in on NASA’s YouTube channel to watch live visuals and listen to commentary as teams begin fueling the Space Launch System (SLS) rocket.
The full launch coverage would begin from 12:50 p.m. onwards on NASA+, Amazon Prime, or YouTube, said the space agency.