Last mentioned: Mar 7, 2026
Projected Gateway Launch
Target window for first Vulcan-led delivery of Gateway logistics or modules.
Artemis III Landing
Planned return of humans to the lunar surface.
Targeted Artemis II Launch
First crewed mission of the Artemis program (Projected).
Artemis Selection
NASA officially integrates Vulcan Centaur 5 into the Artemis mission architecture.
Second Fueling Test
Critical wet dress rehearsal to validate hardware for crewed flight.
NSSL Certification
Completion of required flights for National Security Space Launch certification.
Vulcan Maiden Flight
Successful inaugural launch of the Vulcan Centaur (Cert-1) carrying the Peregrine lunar lander.
Artemis I Launch
Successful uncrewed flight of SLS and Orion to lunar orbit.
NASA has officially selected United Launch Alliance’s Vulcan Centaur 5 to support the Artemis lunar program, marking a critical expansion of the agency's heavy-lift capabilities. This decision reinforces the shift toward a multi-provider commercial model for deep-space logistics and infrastructure.
NASA has initiated its second major rocket fueling test for the Artemis program, a pivotal milestone that will dictate the launch window for the next crewed lunar mission. This technical validation is essential for ensuring the integrity of the Space Launch System (SLS) and the safety of the astronauts slated for the historic journey.