Into the Light: Artemis II Cabin Views During Launch Abort System Jettison

art002m1200912233C (April 1, 2026) - The darkened interior of the Orion spacecraft is suddenly illuminated when the spacecraft’s launch abort system is jettisoned 3 minutes and 18 seconds after the launch of Artemis II on April 1, 2026. The launch abort system, which would pull Orion and its crew to safety in the event of an emergency during launch, provides a protective shroud for the Orion crew module during the dynamic early portion of ascent. When it is no longer needed, it is jettisoned, exposing the spacecraft windows to sunlight for the first time in the mission. This view comes from a camera looking over the shoulders of Artemis II Commander Reid Wiseman and Pilot Victor Glover.