The Artemis 3 crew is set to be announced on June 9th, and the speculation is high. NASA is targeting a crew of four astronauts for this high-profile mission, which will differ significantly from Artemis 2. The focus will be on spacecraft piloting and operations, rather than lunar exploration.
The Artemis 2 crew, which flew around the moon in April, includes astronauts like Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover, and Christina Koch. However, these astronauts are unlikely to be considered for Artemis 3 due to the back-to-back flight scheduling policy. Other astronauts, like Jessica Meir and Jessica Watkins, are also unlikely due to their current or upcoming assignments to the International Space Station (ISS).
Some astronauts, like Anne McClain and Jonny Kim, are possible contenders due to their recent returns from the ISS and their diverse backgrounds. Kim, in particular, has experience as a special-operations Navy SEAL, pilot, physician, combat medic, and flight surgeon, making him a strong candidate. McClain, with her background in aerospace engineering and U.S. Army aviator experience, is also a potential contender.
The top-tier candidates for Artemis 3 include Raja Chari, Nicole Mann, Kayla Barron, and Andre Douglas. Chari has led astronaut development and testing for the Human Landing System (HLS) and has two EVAs under his belt. Mann and Barron are also highly qualified, with Mann's experience as a test pilot and mechanical engineer, and Barron's work on Artemis rovers and operational concepts.
The middle tier includes Jasmin Moghbeli, Frank Rubio, Zena Cardman, and Stephanie Wilson. These astronauts have diverse backgrounds and experience, but may not have the same level of hands-on experience with the spacecraft as the top-tier candidates.
The bottom tier includes Anne McClain, Jonny Kim, Woody Hoburg, Nichole Ayers, and Loral O'Hara. These astronauts have strong qualifications but may not be as well-suited for the specific objectives of Artemis 3.
The inclusion of international astronauts is also a possibility. ESA astronaut Samantha Cristoforetti, with her Crew Dragon, ISS, and EVA experience, could be a compelling option. However, the cancellation of the lunar Gateway space station may have complicated these arrangements.
Ultimately, the Artemis 3 crew will be a mix of experienced and diverse astronauts, with a focus on spacecraft piloting and operations. The final list of names will be revealed on June 9th, and the speculation will continue until then.
