Earth-Based Telescope Captures Image of Artemis II Capsule Near Moon
The Green Bank Telescope (GBT) in West Virginia has captured a blurry image of the Artemis II Orion capsule. The photograph shows the capsule circling the Moon at a distance of more than 200,000 miles from Earth. This image is being considered a candidate for the longest-distance photograph of humans ever taken from an Earth-based observatory.

The Green Bank Telescope (GBT), located in West Virginia, has successfully captured an image of the Artemis II Orion capsule. The photograph depicts the capsule in proximity to the Moon, observed at a distance exceeding 200,000 miles from Earth. This event marks a significant instance of an Earth-based observatory documenting a spacecraft engaged in lunar activities from such a substantial range.
The image itself is described as blurry. Despite its clarity, the photograph of the Artemis II Orion capsule circling the Moon is being presented as a candidate for the longest-distance image of humans ever taken from Earth. This claim highlights a notable achievement in long-range imaging from a terrestrial vantage point.
The Green Bank Telescope is known for its advanced observational capabilities, contributing to various scientific endeavors. Its capacity to capture such distant subjects, like the Artemis II Orion capsule, demonstrates the sophisticated instrumentation available for space tracking and astronomical research. According to Live Science, this image represents a significant milestone in Earth-based space observation.


