This Week In Space — Episode 202: Artemis 2 Poised For Early April Launch

On Episode 202 of This Week In Space, hosts Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik are joined by Mike Wall, Space.com’s spaceflight and tech editor, to review the latest developments in NASA’s Artemis program and what’s next for the return to the Moon.

Artemis 2 Update

The Artemis 2 stack has been returned to Launch Complex 39B at Kennedy Space Center and is entering final launch preparations. NASA officials say the vehicle could be ready to lift off as early as April 1, pending a successful series of tests.

NASA has opted to skip a wet-dress rehearsal for this mission. As Associate Administrator Lori Glaze explained at a recent briefing, if fueling proceeds smoothly the agency intends to move straight to launch rather than repeat a full wet rehearsal.

A Celestron telescope on a white background

The Artemis 2 crew will soon arrive at KSC to begin pre-launch quarantine, and Tariq Malik will be on site to cover the activities and the launch for the show.

What to Expect from the Episode

Hosts and guest experts break down the timeline, technical steps remaining before liftoff, and how NASA is managing risk for a crewed lunar mission. The episode also touches on broader topics in the new space age, from commercial efforts to planetary defense to the growing interest in public amateur astronomy.

Listen and Subscribe

This Week In Space publishes weekly on Fridays. You can subscribe through your preferred podcast app to get the latest episodes and updates.

Note: This episode includes reporting and on-site coverage from KSC as Artemis 2 moves toward its possible early-April launch window.