Artemis II Crew Recounts Journey to Moon in Visit to Cerritos Center for the Performing Arts

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A packed audience gathered at the Cerritos Center for the Performing Arts (CCPA) on August 4 to celebrate the region’s aerospace contributions to NASA’s historic Artemis II mission. The 10-day journey flew 694,481 miles around the Moon and back, returning to Earth on April 10. 

Attendees enjoyed a presentation about the success of the mission, the first crewed flight around the Moon and back since 1972. They also learned about the important role of California companies in the development of the Artemis II spacecraft and other essential components. A STEM Fair was held in the CCPA Lobby prior to the show.  

“What an honor for our City to welcome a packed audience to celebrate our courageous and inspiring Artemis II crew,” said Cerritos Mayor Lynda Provido Johnson. “We were proud to partner with NASA for an out-of-this-world evening. Programs like the Artemis II Celebration reflect the CCPA’s mission to build community through incredible cultural and educational experiences.” 

According to NASA, there are hundreds of suppliers and thousands of employees across California supporting Artemis, including its foundational elements. This includes Orion, the only spacecraft capable of crewed deep space flight and high-speed reentry from the vicinity of the Moon; the Space Launch System (SLS), the heavy-lift, deep space rocket; and the Exploration Ground Systems. Learn more about Artemis II at nasa.gov/artemis. 

The Artemis II program comes days after the CCPA hosted a sell-out crowd for its 2026-2027 season opener, featuring 13-time Grammy Award-winning artist John Legend. 

For More Information

Visit cerritoscenter.com to explore upcoming shows or call the CCPA Box Office at (562) 916-8500.