All top stories · This edition

Artemis II Crew Returns, NASA Plans Future Lunar Missions

April 13, 2026

Summary

The Artemis II astronauts received a jubilant welcome in Houston after their record-breaking moon mission, with NASA now targeting the moon's south pole for a future base and preparing for Artemis III next year.

How coverage differs

Left outlets emphasize the Artemis II crew's profound human experience and philosophical reflections, while right outlets focus on the mission's successful completion and swift progression towards future lunar endeavors.

  • Left: Astronauts' triumphant return highlights human wonder and collective space achievement Left-leaning outlets focus on the profound human experience of the Artemis II crew, highlighting their emotional reflections on Earth's beauty and fragility from space. They emphasize the philosophical impact of the moon flyby, framing it as a moment of awe and perspective for humanity.
  • Right: American space leadership continues with bold lunar mission plans Right-leaning outlets highlight the successful completion of the Artemis II lunar flight and the swift progression towards future NASA missions. They emphasize that the next Artemis follow-up mission is 'right around the corner,' underscoring the program's momentum and efficiency.

Coverage by lane

Left

  • Artemis II crew on their moon flyby: ‘Earth was this lifeboat hanging in the universe’

Right

  • NASA's Artemis follow-up mission 'right around the corner' after successful lunar flight

More from this edition

  • Hungary Elects Peter Magyar, Ending Orbán's 16-Year Rule
  • Vance Leaves Pakistan as Iran Peace Talks Collapse
  • Broader Geopolitical Context of Iran War
  • Iran Nuclear Program, Hormuz Control Sticking Points
  • Trump Orders Hormuz Blockade Monday; Iran Peace Talks Collapse
  • International Reactions and Economic Shifts Amid Iran Conflict
  • Asha Bhosle, Bollywood's Beloved Singer, Dies at 92
  • US Blockades Iranian Ports; Oil Jumps Above $100