Trump congratulates returned Artemis astronauts, says ‘next step, Mars!’

U.S. President Donald Trump on Friday (April 11, 2026) praised the Artemis astronauts just after they splashed down in the Pacific and capped their journey around the Moon, as he looked ahead to the eventual goal of sending missions to Mars.

“Congratulations to the Great and Very Talented Crew of Artemis II. The entire trip was spectacular, the landing was perfect and, as President of the United States, I could not be more proud!” Mr. Trump said on Truth Social.