NASA names the astronauts eligible for early Artemis Moon missions

NASA has shared a shortlist of astronauts eligible for the principle Artemis missions to the Moon, and it won’t surprise you to hear that it’s an eclectic combine. The 18 candidates no longer handiest cloak a vary of backgrounds, but encompass everyone from relative rookies to a pair of its most seasoned veterans.

Eight of the astronauts are from the 2017 class, including US Navy Lieutenant Commander Kayla Barron, Navy SEAL and clinical doctor Jonny Kim and Curiosity science team member Jessica Watkins. There are also numerous 2013 veterans, though, including file-setter Christina Koch and Crew Dragon pilot Victor Glover. Just among the candidates are indispensable more experienced, though — Stephanie Wilson landed her astronaut purpose in 1996, while Joseph Acaba secured his save in 2004.