After venturing farther into space than any humans before them, the crew of Artemis II made a safe splashdown in the Pacific.
The moments leading up to the landing were nerve-racking, according to many NC State students.
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“I was very anxious because you never know anything could happen, and luckily, the best possible outcome happened. So I was very emotional. I stood up, clapping," Tomari Wright said.
On campus, that moment sparked a wave of excitement. Students say the achievement feels even more significant knowing Christina Koch, an NC State alumna, was part of the history-making crew.
“Absolute joy and delight. It is such an honor to have NC State written as a part of this historic program, the Artemis program here," said student Bryce Clinkscales.
Students say Koch’s role stood out, highlighting a milestone moment as the first woman and NC Alumna to travel around the moon.
“I never thought that somebody from our school could just be able to go up into space, go around the moon, and come back," said student Valeria Restrepo. "Just watching the landing and watching the splash, knowing that she is back home, her crewmates are back home, I’m shivering right now. It’s just so amazing.”
With a successful return now complete, students say this mission isn’t just a win for space exploration, it’s a proud moment for the Wolfpack.