'Swamp-like colors' on the moon: New 130-page NASA science report reveals strange sights from Artemis II mission
A new NASA report reveals that Artemis II astronauts observed unexpected colors, such as yellow and green, on the lunar surface. These findings provide new geological insights for future lunar exploration.
Why it matters
Advances scientific understanding of the moon's composition, which is critical for planning future human landings and resource extraction.
Astronauts on NASA's Artemis II mission saw surprising "jaundiced yellow" and "swampy green" colors on the moon during their close lunar flyby, a new report reveals.
By Brandon Specktor Edited by Tia Ghose , Laura Mondrag n Published 11 October 2026 In Features When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Here's how it works .
A photo of Aristarchus Plateau (top right) taken by the Artemis II crew in April shows surprising brown and green features. (Image credit: NASA) Copy link Facebook X Reddit Pinterest Flipboard Share this article 0 Join the conversation Follow us Add us as a preferred source on Google Newsletter Subscribe to our newsletter Quick facts What it is: A view of the moon from the Artemis II crew
Where it is: Aristarchus Plateau, on the moon's near side
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