NASA Revises Artemis Moon Program Adding Earth Orbit Test Before 2028 Lunar Landing

NASA has revised its Artemis lunar program, adding a new 2027 mission focused on spacecraft docking tests in low Earth orbit before the planned lunar landing in 2028. Artemis III, originally intended for the moon landing, will now test Orion capsule docking with commercial landers, while Artemis IV aims for the first crewed moon landing in over 50 years. The changes address delays, technical challenges, and cost overruns, including canceling a Boeing upgrade to the Space Launch System rocket, with NASA emphasizing increased flight frequency and safety.