NASA Space Missions 2026: Moon, Mars and satellite launch updates

NASA Space Missions 2026 (Image: NASA)

NASA is preparing for a pivotal year in human spaceflight. In 2026, the agency will focus on Moon missions. The plans centre on crewed exploration and robotic science. Mars exploration will also advance through new spacecraft launches. Commercial partners will play an increasing role throughout missions.

Artemis II and NASA’s return to the Moon

The centrepiece of NASA’s 2026 programme is Artemis II. The mission will send four astronauts around the Moon. It will mark the first crewed lunar flight since Apollo. Artemis II is scheduled for early to mid 2026. The astronauts will spend around ten days in space. They will fly aboard the Orion spacecraft. The mission will test Orion and the Space Launch System. These systems are intended for future lunar landings.

NASA has highlighted Artemis II’s historic crew composition. It will include the first woman on a lunar mission. It will also include the first person of colour. A non-American astronaut will also be part. The mission will not land on the Moon. Instead, it will validate deep space operations. NASA sees this as essential preparation for later landings.

Robotic missions will support Artemis objectives. Commercial Lunar Payload Services missions will continue. These flights deliver scientific instruments to the Moon. They help study surface conditions and lunar resources. The robotic landers will operate alongside crewed planning.

• Artemis II crewed lunar flyby mission
• Continued CLPS robotic deliveries to lunar surface
• System testing for future Moon landings

Mars missions and robotic exploration plans

NASA’s Mars focus in 2026 remains robotic. The agency plans to launch Escapade. The mission includes two small twin spacecraft. They will study Mars’ magnetosphere and atmosphere. The launch will use Blue Origin’s New Glenn rocket. Scientists aim to better understand atmospheric loss on Mars.

Commercial ambitions will also shape Mars exploration. SpaceX plans major Starship testing during 2026. The company hopes to launch a Starship toward Mars. The test may include robotic payloads. NASA views these developments as long-term preparation. Human Mars missions remain years away.

Broader space activity and partnerships

Beyond exploration, NASA will continue supporting the International Space Station. Boeing’s Starliner will conduct uncrewed test flights. These flights aim to certify the spacecraft. Earth and space science satellite launches will also continue. International and commercial partnerships remain central to strategy.

NASA officials describe 2026 as a foundational year. The Moon will take priority through Artemis II. Mars preparation will continue through robotic missions. Together, these efforts shape future exploration beyond Earth orbit.