Mills Observatory is hosting a special event ahead of the Artemis II launch

Mills Observatory is set to host a special public event ahead of the upcoming Artemis II mission, which will mark humanity’s return beyond low Earth orbit for the first time in more than 50 years.

The event will include a dedicated talk explaining what the Artemis II mission involves, why it matters, and how it will pave the way for future human landings on the Moon.

NASA’s Artemis II mission will be the first crewed lunar flyby since the Apollo era. Four astronauts will travel around the Moon on a 10-day mission designed to test the spacecraft and systems needed for long-duration human exploration.

The mission is currently scheduled to launch in 2026, with an ambitious target window as early as February. It will be the first time humans venture beyond low Earth orbit since Apollo 17 in 1972.

The event echoes the observatory’s historic role during the Apollo missions of the 1960s, when it helped the public follow humanity’s first journeys to the Moon. Organisers say it is fitting that Mills is once again marking a major moment in space exploration.

The talk will take place at Mills Observatory on Saturday 24 January at 7pm. Tickets cost £3 per person and booking is essential via the observatory on 01382 435967.