NASA's Artemis II likely final solo crewed mission near Moon
NASA's Artemis II, which launched, is likely the last time NASA will send astronauts near the Moon without teaming up with venture-backed space companies.
This mission is a big throwback: it's been over 50 years since humans got this close to the Moon.
Artemis II used NASA's own rockets and the Orion spacecraft. But things are changing: after this, private space companies like SpaceX will be much more involved.
NASA teams with SpaceX, Blue Origin
From now on, NASA plans to work closely with companies like SpaceX and Blue Origin for future Moon landings: no more going it alone.
The agency has dropped its old Gateway space station idea and wants to use private landers by 2028.
With China aiming to put someone on the Moon by 2030, these partnerships are all about keeping up in the new space race.