The much-anticipated Artemis II launch is finally set to lift off after several delays and cancellations.
The mission will carry astronauts on a crewed flight around the moon, marking the first time NASA has sent humans beyond low-Earth orbit since the Apollo program, more than half a century ago. Among the crew is the first woman to travel beyond Earth orbit, making this a historic milestone.
But as always, the question remains: will the weather cooperate? NASA currently forecasts an "80% chance of favorable weather conditions, with cloud coverage and potential for high winds on the ground as primary weather concerns."
Here’s a closer look at the forecast, along with satellite maps that show the key factors forecasters monitor ahead of launch — including how unstable the atmosphere is and how much moisture is available for clouds and storms to develop.
More: Artemis II won't land on the moon. When will astronauts return?
