Notifications can be managed in browser preferences.Jump to contentIndependentSwipe for next articleIndependent Bulletin homepageDownload our appAllNewsSportCultureLifestyleHolly PatrickMonday 06 April 2026 12:05 BSTApollo astronaut sends inspirational message to Artemis crew on journey to moonApollo 16 astronaut Charlie Duke recorded a heartfelt message for the Artemis II crew as they embark on their journey to the Moon.The Artemis II mission, which launched on Thursday, 1 April, is the first crewed mission to the Moon since Apollo 17 in 1972.Mr Duke, now 90, became the youngest person to walk on the Moon at the age of 36.During his historic mission, he left a photograph of his family on the lunar surface.His message to the Artemis II crew said: “I pray it reminds you that we and America and all of the world are cheering you on.”In fullApollo 16’s youngest moonwalker sends heartfelt message to Artemis II crew ahead of Moon flybyThank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in