François Picard speaks to Didier Schmitt, head of future preparation for the European Space Agency. He says the Artemis II mission marks a key moment in contemporary space exploration. It is highly technical and collaborative – a test of systems, international partnerships, and our ability to extend human presence beyond Earth once again. He says the flyby will help validate critical technologies, from life support to propulsion, while also highlighting the growing role of Europe through the European Service Module. At the same time, he stresses the scientific importance of exploring the far side of the Moon and, in the near future, its south pole, where untouched materials may reveal the Moon’s, and by extension, the Earth’s evolutionary history. Ultimately, this mission is seen as a necessary step in a longer journey: mastering lunar exploration before venturing further into deep space, including Mars. What we are witnessing is not a return to past achievements, but laying the foundation of a new era of exploration. Produced by François Picard, Théophile Vareille, Juliette Laffont and Guillaume Gougeon …