Orion spacecraft sits at launch pad ahead of Artemis II mission.

NASA's Orion spacecraft sits atop the SLS rocket at the launch pad after rollout on Jan. 17, 2026, and is intended to carry the Artemis II crew around the Moon. The vehicle is designed to house four astronauts for up to 21 days without docking and includes upgraded life support, avionics, power, and thermal protection systems.

NASA's Orion spacecraft sits at the launch pad after rollout on Jan. 17, 2026. It rests atop the SLS (Space Launch System) rocket. Orion is scheduled to carry the Artemis II crew around the Moon. The spacecraft is designed to provide living space for four astronauts for up to 21 days without docking. Known details: - The photographed rollout and placement at the pad occurred on Jan. 17, 2026. - Orion is mounted on the SLS rocket for the upcoming mission. - The spacecraft can accommodate four crew members for up to 21 days without docking to another vehicle. - Upgrades cited include life support, avionics, power systems, and thermal protection. - These systems are intended to support the crew during launch, landing, and recovery. Summary: The spacecraft's placement prepares it for the Artemis II crewed lunar flyaround. Specific launch date and subsequent mission milestones are undetermined at this time.