NASA Overhauls Artemis Moon Programme with New Docking Test Mission, Cancels SLS Upgrade Contract

NASA has overhauled its Artemis moon program with a new mission involving a spacecraft docking test in Earth's orbit before landing its first astronauts on the moon in over half a century. The mission, planned for 2027, is part of NASA's efforts to address competitive pressure from China and ensure safety before a crewed attempt to land on the moon in 2028. NASA has also canceled plans to upgrade its Space Launch System rocket and will instead focus on increasing production and flight rate.