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Artemis Astronauts Set New Distance Record from Earth During Moon Flyby

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Key Points
  • Artemis astronauts have traveled farther from Earth than any humans before.
  • The mission includes a six-hour moon flyby, NASA's first moon-targeted trip in 53 years.
  • The crew of three Americans and one Canadian received a message from late Apollo 13 commander Jim Lovell.

The astronauts of the Artemis expedition have now rounded the moon, placing them farther from Earth than any humans have previously been. Astronaut Christina Koch and her colleagues achieved this milestone during a six-hour flyby, which marks the highlight of NASA's first moon-targeted space mission in 53 years. The crew, consisting of three Americans and one Canadian, was awakened on the day of the event by a recorded message from Apollo 13 commander Jim Lovell, who died in August last year.

Lovell welcomed them to his 'old neighborhood' and encouraged them to enjoy the view during this historic occasion.

Welcome to my 'old neighborhood'

Jim Lovell, Apollo 13 commander

Enjoy the view during this historic occasion

Jim Lovell, Apollo 13 commander

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