NASA's Artemis II mission is set to launch as the first crewed lunar mission since the Apollo program, which last sent humans to the Moon in 1972. This 10-day mission will carry four astronauts on a lunar flyby, testing critical systems such as life support and navigation. Retired astronaut Dr. Bonnie Dunbar emphasized that Artemis is not merely a return to the Moon but a gateway to future exploration, including Mars. The mission builds on the uncrewed Artemis I, which successfully demonstrated the capabilities of the Orion spacecraft. Texas A&M University is significantly involved in this new era of space exploration, with projects like the Texas A&M Space Institute and TAMU-SPIRIT, which will be utilized on the International Space Station. The advancements since the Apollo missions are remarkable; today's spacecraft utilize digital technology for safer operations, contrasting with the analog systems of the past. Artemis II aims to establish a sustainable human presence on the Moon, focusing on the lunar south pole, which may harbor water ice. This mission not only honors the legacy of Apollo but also embraces new technologies and scientific inquiries for the future.