Germany eyes historic Moon landing with NASA's Artemis mission by 2028

Germany may soon send its first astronaut to the Moon as part of NASA’s Artemis programme. Alexander Gerst and Matthias Maurer are among the leading candidates for the mission. The opportunity marks a new chapter in the country’s long history of space exploration. German astronauts have been travelling to space for over four decades. Their journeys began with research on the Salyut space station and missions aboard the Space Shuttle. Later, they contributed to the Mir station and helped build the International Space Station.

Ulrike 'Ulli' Merbold became the first German woman in space in 1983 during the STS-9 mission. Now, the focus shifts to the Moon. The Artemis 4 mission, scheduled for 2028, could include a German astronaut, though delays remain possible.

Unlike the Apollo era, there is no rush to launch before the end of the decade. NASA has faced hurdles, including setbacks during the Trump administration. If selected, Gerst or Maurer would make history as the first European on a lunar mission. A French and an Italian astronaut are also set to join future Artemis flights. A German astronaut landing on the Moon would be a historic moment for the nation. The mission could inspire widespread excitement and pride. While the timeline is flexible, the Artemis programme represents a major step for European space exploration.