The crew is ready and excited to go': countdown begins for Artemis 2 lunar mission

The countdown has "just been resumed" ahead of the launch of the Artemis 2 mission, which is set to send astronauts around the Moon for the first time in more than half a century, said Artemis Launch Director. "It's an exciting time for this team and our crew and really the nation and the world," she added.

A delay could still occur due to weather or a technical issue -- two very common setbacks in the space sector -- but the rocket and the crew are ready, said Chief Flight Director.