NASA is preparing to announce the crew composition for the Artemis 3 mission, which will be an important step toward returning astronauts to the Moon. The official presentation of the team is scheduled for June 9. Meanwhile, experts and sources inside the agency are actively discussing who might be among the four astronauts.

Specifics of the Artemis 3 mission

Unlike Artemis 2, which completed a lunar flyby in April, the third mission will take place in low Earth orbit. The crew's main tasks include:

  • Practicing rendezvous and docking with lunar landing modules (SpaceX's Starship and Blue Origin's Blue Moon)
  • Testing new spacesuits for spacewalks
  • Checking Orion's systems in real flight conditions with a crew

This is why NASA is looking for astronauts with experience in piloting, docking, and spacewalks.

Top favorites

Among the most likely candidates, several names from the main Artemis corps and other experienced astronauts stand out.

Top candidates:

  • Raja Chari — one of the strongest contenders. Commander of Crew-3, two spacewalks, significant experience with Orion systems and lunar landing modules.
  • Nicole Mann — commander of Crew-5, two spacewalks, extensive test-piloting experience and work in the Artemis program.
  • Kayla Barron — Crew-3 member, two spacewalks, actively participated in the development of lunar spacesuits and rovers.
  • Andre Douglas — backup crew member for Artemis 2, completed full training alongside the primary team, has extensive experience with Orion.

Other possible participants

Among the mid-tier contenders are Jasmin Moghbeli, Frank Rubio, Zena Cardman, Stephanie Wilson, and Matthew Dominick. Each has strengths: flight experience, spacewalks, or leadership positions in the Artemis program.

Less likely but still possible candidates include Anne McClain and Jonny Kim, as well as several astronauts not part of the main 2020 Artemis corps.

International aspect

The question of international astronaut participation remains open. Previously, Canada received a seat on Artemis 2 in exchange for its contribution to the Gateway lunar station. However, Gateway plans have been substantially revised, which could affect seat assignments in future missions. The European Space Agency (ESA) is also vying for participation, particularly Germany, as the agency's largest financial contributor.

In brief

NASA will announce the Artemis 3 crew on June 9. The main candidates are considered to be Raja Chari, Nicole Mann, Kayla Barron, and Andre Douglas. The mission will take place in low Earth orbit and will focus on practicing docking with lunar modules and testing new spacesuits. This is an important preparatory stage for the first astronaut landing on the lunar surface under the Artemis program, scheduled for late 2028.