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January 09, 2024

Ranking Members Lofgren and Sorensen Statement on Artemis Mission Delay

(WASHINGTON, DC)— Today, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) announced the delay of the Artemis II and III missions. NASA cited safety as the main reason for the delay. NASA now plans to launch Artemis II in September 2025 and Artemis III in September 2026. 

"While we are disappointed to learn of an Artemis delay today, we stand by NASA in their commitment to safety," said Ranking Members Lofgren and Sorensen. "We support Artemis and its goal to return astronauts to the Moon; we want these missions to be safe and successful. As we move forward to ensure Artemis stays on track, we must understand the challenges of this complex effort and its delays. The Artemis Program holds tremendous importance to our nation. It will inspire the next generation, strengthen our industry and international partnerships, and demonstrate capabilities needed for eventually sending humans to Mars.

"Next week, the Committee plans to hold a hearing on the Artemis Program. We look forward to learning more about the cause and costs of delays then."