Inside Orion: The Spacecraft Powering Artemis II

As NASA prepares for Artemis II — the first crewed mission of the Artemis program — one spacecraft sits at the center of humanity’s return to deep space: Orion. Built by Lockheed Martin, Orion is the only human-rated spacecraft capable of carrying astronauts beyond low-Earth orbit and safely bringing them home. From its advanced propulsion and launch abort systems to cutting-edge avionics, rigorous ground testing and precision docking capabilities, Orion represents decades of engineering, innovation and hard-earned lessons in human spaceflight.

14 Things You May Not Know About Orion

From how astronauts exercise in microgravity to how Orion survives reentry at 5,000°F, discover surprising details behind the spacecraft carrying humans beyond the Moon for the first time in more than 50 years. These little-known facts highlight the ingenuity, safety and human-centered design that make Orion ready for Artemis II — and beyond.

How the Propulsion System of Orion Steers Us to the Moon

Launching Orion is only the beginning. Explore the engines and thrusters that guide the spacecraft through every phase of Artemis II, from launch abort protection and orbital maneuvers to lunar flyby and the journey home. Learn how Orion’s layered propulsion systems work together to precisely navigate deep space.

How to Keep Orion Astronauts Safe – Redundancies

From five independent flight computers to redundant propulsion, power and life-support systems, Orion is engineered to survive the unexpected. Discover how redundancy is designed into the spacecraft to keep crews safe on long-duration missions beyond Earth.

Docking Orion: Choreographing a Space Dance

Docking in space demands precision, automation and trust in technology. Explore how Orion’s Rendezvous, Proximity Operations and Docking (RPOD) systems use advanced sensors, cameras and LiDAR to safely connect with other spacecraft. It also previews the critical proximity operations demonstration planned during Artemis II.

When Milliseconds Matter: How Orion’s Launch Abort System Protects Astronauts

Safety is never optional in human spaceflight. Orion’s launch abort system stands guard shortly after the crew boards, ready to pull astronauts to safety in milliseconds if needed. From design advantages to real-world testing, it’s a closer look at the system built for the worst day.

Orion’s Integrated Test Lab: Ground-Testing the Spacecraft Before Launch

Before Orion ever leaves Earth, it flies countless missions on the ground. Inside the Integrated Test Lab (ITL), engineers and astronauts operate a one-to-one replica of the spacecraft, running full mission simulations that reduce risk and build confidence.