Why Artemis II Matters: Risks And The New Space Race
Why Artemis II Matters: Risks And The New Space Race  
Podcast: SmartHER News
Published On: Tue Mar 31 2026
Description: Jenna interviews space journalist Kristin Fisher of Endless Void Studios about why NASA's Artemis II mission matters, framing it as a choice to lead or follow as China and others pursue the Moon.   The daughter of two NASA astronauts, Fisher says success is simply returning the four astronauts safely, calling it NASA's riskiest human test flight since Apollo because this rocket has flown only once and, after a certain part of the journey (a trans-lunar injection) there is no rescue option.    She explains recent delays stemmed from hydrogen/helium leak issues and notes a "point of no return"  before a single lunar slingshot flyby that will set a human distance record.    Kristin describes the importance of the "lunar base" competition between the U.S., Russia and China for "property" at the Moon's south pole - a key spot for potential ice that carries huge national security implications.    Fisher also shares the details of her "Launch Party" live coverage aimed at space-curious viewers. 00:00 Why Artemis II Matters 01:11 Leading the Moon Return 02:29 Defining Mission Success 03:43 Human Risk and Reality 05:54 Hydrogen Leak Delays 08:47 Countdown and Launch Day 11:59 Flight Plan to the Moon 13:33 Why This Crew Won't Land On the Moon 14:42 Stakes of the Space Race 2.0  17:33 Launch Party Coverage 20:47 Final Thanks  Kristin Fischer:  Launch Party Endless Void Studios Instagram SUPPORT OUR MISSION: Love nonpartisan news? Want a bigger serving of the serious headlines?  Here's how you can become a SCOOP insider: https://www.scoop.smarthernews.com/get-the-inside-scoop/    Shop our gear!  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/smarthernews/  Website: https://smarthernews.com/  YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/smarthernews