On the night of April 9, 2026, at 10:53 p.m. EDT, the Orion spacecraft successfully performed its second return correction burn. This maneuver lasted nine seconds and increased the vessel’s velocity by 5.3 feet per second, propelling the Artemis II crew closer to Earth. With this burn, the crew is now more than halfway through their journey back.
Unexpected Communication Challenge
About two hours prior to the burn, there was a temporary loss of signal during a data rate adjustment. This issue affected the transmission of key communications and telemetry data from the Orion spacecraft to mission control. However, two-way communication was promptly restored, allowing flight controllers to continue their preparations for the burn.
Upcoming Mission Milestones
Earlier that day, NASA officials conducted a status briefing, providing updates on the mission’s re-entry and splashdown strategies. The third return trajectory correction burn is scheduled for April 10, 2026, at approximately 1:53 p.m. EDT, as the crew moves toward final preparations for re-entry.
Splashdown Details
The target for splashdown is set for April 10 at 8:07 p.m. EDT, which will be 5:07 p.m. PDT. This event will occur off the coast of San Diego, marking a significant milestone in the Artemis II mission.
Key Mission Facts
- Second Return Correction Burn: April 9, 2026, at 10:53 p.m. EDT
- Duration: 9 seconds
- Velocity Increase: 5.3 feet per second
- Expected Splashdown: April 10, 2026, at 8:07 p.m. EDT
- Location: Off the coast of San Diego
- Next Trajectory Correction Burn: April 10, 2026, at 1:53 p.m. EDT
The successful completion of the second return correction burn marks a vital step in the Artemis II mission as the crew prepares for their return to Earth.
