Meet Artemis II Astronaut Reid Wiseman

Reid Wiseman, Commander of NASA's Artemis II Mission, views the moon as a unifying force, connecting him with all other humans. He recalls looking at the moon as a child, realizing friends miles away could see it too, and later, while in the Navy halfway across the planet, knowing his brother could see the same moon. This constant connection to life on Earth, and the moon's ever-changing phases, resonate deeply with him. Growing up north of Baltimore, Reid was inspired by A-10 aircraft flying near his home and the Blue Angels at Naval Academy commencements. Initially wanting to join the Air Force, he discovered the Navy flew from ships in the ocean, a concept that solidified his career path. For him, flying represents freedom, especially when launching from an aircraft carrier in the vast Pacific, feeling truly alone and free. Reid believes accomplishment stems from a combination of factors: his upbringing, his relationship with his brother, friendships, education, mentorship, and the freedom to make mistakes and regroup. He has faced many fears, including a fear of heights, which surprisingly didn't manifest on the International Space Station, where he loved floating and looking at Earth. The biggest challenge in his life, however, was losing his wife to cancer in 2020 and subsequently raising two daughters as a single parent while working full-time. Despite the difficulties, he is proud of his efforts, always showing up and trying his best.