NASA has unveiled ambitious plans to send astronauts on a mission around the Moon in the coming months, with hopes of landing on the lunar surface as early as 2027. This mission would mark the first crewed lunar flight in 50 years, potentially paving the way for humanity's inaugural journey to Mars.

The US space agency announced the details on X, stating, "Experts are discussing the latest on the Artemis II mission. Artemis II, which will send four astronauts around the Moon next year, will prepare us for crewed missions to the lunar surface and future Martian missions."

Originally targeting a launch by the end of April, NASA is now aiming to expedite the mission. The ten-day journey will allow astronauts to test the spacecraft and systems necessary for future Moon landings. This mission represents the second launch of the Artemis programme, which not only seeks to land astronauts on the Moon but also aims to establish a long-term human presence there.

Lakiesha Hawkins, acting deputy associate administrator at NASA, emphasised the significance of the mission for human space exploration. "We together have a front row seat to history," she stated during a news conference on Tuesday afternoon.

The launch window for Artemis II could open as early as 5 February, although NASA has stressed that safety remains the top priority as they prepare for this historic journey.