Public sign‑up adds names to spacecraft SD card Anyone can register online for a virtual boarding pass, automatically storing their name on an SD card that will travel aboard Artemis II [1][2]. Registrants choose a 4‑7 digit PIN, and NASA reports that more than 1.5 million names are already queued for upload [1][2]. The program is designed to give the public a tangible link to the lunar test flight without requiring travel [2].

Crew includes Wiseman, Glover, Koch, and Hansen NASA has confirmed Reid Wiseman as commander, Victor Glover and Christina Koch as pilots, and Canadian astronaut Jeremy Hansen as a crew member [1][2]. This four‑person team will be the first humans to travel to the Moon since Apollo 17 in 1972 [2]. Hansen’s participation marks Canada’s first astronaut to fly on a lunar mission [1].

Ten‑day lunar test flight validates deep‑space systems Artemis II will orbit the Moon and return to Earth over a ten‑day period, testing propulsion, navigation, and life‑support hardware needed for future exploration [1][2]. The mission is framed as a critical step toward returning humans to the lunar surface and eventually reaching Mars [2]. NASA emphasizes the flight’s role in demonstrating integrated performance of the Space Launch System and Orion spacecraft [1].

Launch timing hinges on SLS fueling demonstration NASA has not set a firm launch date, citing the need to complete a Space Launch System fueling test on the launch pad in early February [2]. The agency indicated a “no‑later‑than” window extending to April 2026, pending successful completion of the demo [1]. Officials stress that an official launch announcement will follow only after the fueling test validates system readiness [2].