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Artemis II calls ISS during return, shares new far-side moon photos

scienceApr 8, 2026

Artemis II astronauts phoned the International Space Station while returning from the Moon. They released high-resolution images of the lunar far side that reveal previously unseen terrain. The call proves sustained deep-space communications with low Earth orbit assets. The photos expand scientific maps of the far side and mark progress for future Artemis missions.

Key Highlights

Artemis II phoned the International Space Station during its return from the Moon.
Crew released high-resolution images of the Moon's far side showing new terrain.
Mission is first crewed lunar flyby since Apollo, advancing deep space operations.
3 sources
npr.orgThe Artemis II crew saw parts of the moon never seen before. Here's what they saidtheguardian.comTrump tells Artemis II crew he saved Nasa despite trying to slash agency’s budgetchicagotribune.comArtemis II astronauts make long-distance call to the space station as they head home from the moon

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Artemis II calls ISS during return, shares new far-side moon photosscience