Artemis II will launch from Kennedy Space Center at 6:24 p.m. Wednesday, marking NASA’s first moon mission since 1972. The four-astronaut crew includes Victor Glover, Reid Wiseman, Christina Koch, and Jeremy Hansen, who will spend 10 days orbiting the moon in the Orion capsule. This mission will send the first Black man, first woman, and first Canadian to the moon. "It’s a historic moment," said Meagan Happel of Visit Space Coast, noting hotels across Brevard County are booking at full capacity. "People are coming from all over to witness this." The launch window offers a two-hour window, with weather officer Mark Burger estimating an 80% chance of favorable conditions despite potential afternoon showers. Burger said cumulus clouds could bring light rain but no major threats. If the launch is delayed, NASA has until April 6 to attempt liftoff. Local businesses are capitalizing on the event, with restaurants adding Artemis-themed dishes and shops selling commemorative merchandise. The mission is a precursor to future Artemis flights that aim to land astronauts on the moon’s surface. "We’re preparing for the next chapter of lunar exploration," said Happel, who noted the economic boost from past launches. The Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex has seen increased visitor numbers ahead of the event, with NASA emphasizing the mission’s role in returning humans to the moon. Weather updates will be shared through NASA and local officials as the launch date approaches.