dailyloe.com – NASA has released a new image of Earth captured by the Artemis II crew on April 6, 2026. The photo shows a crescent Earth from the Orion spacecraft windows. It was taken as the crew traveled farther from Earth than any humans before them. This release coincides with Earth Day and recalls the historic Earthrise photo.
The original Earthrise image was taken by astronaut Bill Anders in 1968. He was a crewmember on NASA’s Apollo 8 mission. That photograph showed Earth peeking above the Moon’s gray horizon. It later became a symbol of hope and inspired the first Earth Day.
NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman commented on the occasion. He said Earth Day reminds us of our responsibility to understand our planet. Isaacman stated NASA’s missions deliver critical data for communities and industries. This data helps respond to wildfires, droughts, and flooding.
The new Artemis II image was taken shortly before the crew flew behind the Moon. It shows Earth hovering just above the lunar surface before Earthset. The crewmembers are Reid, Victor, Christina, and Jeremy. They journeyed farther from Earth than any other humans have traveled.
Nicky Fox is the associate administrator of NASA’s Science Mission Directorate. Fox said the astronauts took humanity on a journey showing Earth’s special nature. She noted this is worth celebrating on Earth Day. Fox referenced images from the dark side of the Moon.
Imaging technology has advanced significantly since 1968. The Apollo 8 crew used Kodak Ektachrome color film for their photo. Today’s missions utilize more powerful instruments. The drive to understand our home planet, however, has remained constant.
The Artemis II photo provides a modern perspective on our planet. It continues a legacy of Earth observation from space. NASA works with Earth science partners to deepen understanding. These efforts strengthen the data available for natural hazard response.
