Low Earth orbit
Artemis III
2027 low-Earth-orbit demonstration of SLS, Orion, the European Service Module, and lunar-landing systems.
Planned as a 2027 low-Earth-orbit demonstration; the exact date remains subject to integrated system readiness.
Official mission site ↗The mission
Artemis III will carry four crew members into low Earth orbit in 2027 to demonstrate critical systems needed for future lunar landings beginning with Artemis IV. The mission uses NASA’s Space Launch System rocket, the Orion crew spacecraft, and ESA’s European Service Module while reducing risk for the Human Landing System campaign.
The launch
- Launch
- 2027
- Launch location
- Kennedy Space Center, FL, USA
- Launch vehicle
- Space Launch System Block 1
- Orbit
- Low Earth Orbit
Mission timeline
Updated Artemis III architecture
Current overview
NASA’s updated mission architecture defines Artemis III as a crewed low-Earth-orbit demonstration rather than a lunar-surface landing.
Open milestone source ↗Objectives
- 01
Demonstrate Space Launch System, Orion, and European Service Module crew operations in low Earth orbit.
- 02
Test critical capabilities needed for lunar-landing missions beginning with Artemis IV.
- 03
Reduce integration and operational risk across NASA’s updated Artemis architecture.
Spacecraft
Orion spacecraft
Carries and sustains four crew members and returns them safely to Earth.
- Manufacturer
- Lockheed Martin
European Service Module
Provides propulsion, power, thermal control, water, and oxygen for Orion.
- Manufacturer
- Airbus Defence and Space for ESA
- Power
- Solar arrays
- Propulsion
- Main engine and auxiliary thrusters
Space Launch System
Heavy-lift launch system used to place Orion and its crew on the Artemis III test trajectory.
- Manufacturer
- NASA and prime contractors
Gallery
2 images from Artemis III.
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