What specific events will be taking place in April surrounding NASA’s Artemis Astronauts mission?
Artemis Astronauts
One of the most anticipated events for the month of April is the official announcement of the Artemis astronauts. These astronauts will be the first to set foot on the moon since the last Apollo mission in 1972. The Artemis program is aiming to establish a sustainable human presence on the moon by the end of the decade.
A Journey to Jupiter
On April 5th, the largest planet in our solar system, Jupiter, will be at opposition. This means that Jupiter, Earth, and the sun will be in a straight line, and Jupiter will be at its closest approach to Earth. This is a great opportunity for stargazers and amateur astronomers to observe Jupiter and its four largest moons, also known as the Galilean moons, through a telescope.
The Lyrid Meteor Shower
April also brings the Lyrid meteor shower, which is known for producing bright and fast meteors. The peak of the shower will occur on the night of April 21st and into the early morning hours of April 22nd. Although the Lyrids are not as intense as some other meteor showers, such as the Perseids or Geminids, they can still produce up to 20 meteors per hour.
Boldly Going Where No One Has Gone Before
In April, NASA will be conducting a third hot fire test of the core stage of the Space Launch System (SLS), which is the most powerful rocket ever built. This will bring us one step closer to launching humans to deep space destinations, such as Mars. The SLS will also play a crucial role in the Artemis program, as it will be the rocket that takes the first crewed mission to the moon since Apollo 17.
The Importance of Following Space Events
Space events, such as those happening in April, provide us with a glimpse into the vast expanse of the universe and the incredible achievements of science and technology. They also remind us of the importance of exploring and understanding our universe. By staying informed and following space events, we can develop a deeper appreciation for the cosmos and the role it plays in our lives on Earth.
- Artemis astronauts to be announced
- Jupiter at opposition on April 5th
- Lyrid meteor shower on April 21st-22nd
- Third hot fire test of SLS core stage
Whether you’re a space enthusiast or just someone who enjoys looking up at the night sky, April has plenty of exciting events to offer. So mark your calendars, set up your telescope, and get ready to explore the wonders of the universe.