Artemis IV

NASA has released a graphic detailing the refueling architecture for the Artemis IV mission, which relies on SpaceX's Starship as the Human Landing System. The plan involves multiple Starship tanker launches to fuel a lander in orbit before sending astronauts to the Moon. The graphic comes as estimates for the number of launches required continue to vary, fueling debate about the mission's timeline and feasibility.

NASA has outlined the refueling architecture it plans to use for Artemis IV, a mission that will rely on SpaceX's Starship to deliver crews to the Moon. The plan depends on multiple tanker launches to top off propellant in orbit, and reported estimates for how many launches are needed vary widely. The update comes as the Artemis program faces schedule pressure and scrutiny over whether Starship refueling can be demonstrated in time.

Getting NASA's Artemis IV mission to the moon will require NASA and SpaceX to carry out multiple launches purely to refuel the rocket before it departs, a process known as orbital propellant transfer. The exact number of refueling flights needed remains unclear, highlighting a major technical and logistical hurdle for the program.

NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman has spoken publicly about the Artemis IV mission, which aims to return astronauts to the lunar surface. The remarks have drawn attention to the timeline and scope of the next crewed moon landing under the Artemis programme, with observers watching closely for details on launch dates, hardware and mission goals.