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As the "U-Tu" Core Module was launched — that is, on the evening of June 25th by America time, the "Blue Moon" lander ascended from launch pad LC-39A aboard the Heavy Falcon.
The crew of Artemis II touched the lander that would carry them to the moon before its fairing closed, praying silently for themselves.
Every astronaut was a qualified engineer; they were keenly aware of how hastily their spacecraft was assembled and were cognizant of the imminent dangers they faced.
"But not as big as those Neil and Buzz faced, right?"
Claire, standing behind the camera, watched as three men and a woman in orange space suits took a group photo beneath a giant flag and said these words to encourage them.
"You're heroes, whether you make it to the moon or not. If conditions do not permit and the landing needs to be canceled, no one will be blamed. The astronaut's life is the most important."
