Missouri Manufacturers Are Helping Take NASA Back to the Moon

• January 20, 2026

Key Takeaways: 

• For the first time in more than 50 years, NASA’s Artemis II mission will send astronauts beyond low Earth orbit; Missouri businesses playing a critical role in making the mission possible.
• From precision machining and advanced materials to electrical systems and tooling, Missouri manufacturers are embedded throughout the Artemis supply chain. 

For the first time in more than 50 years, NASA is preparing to send astronauts beyond Earth orbit, and Missouri manufacturers are playing a critical role in making it happen.

NASA’s Artemis II mission will be the agency’s first crewed flight under the Artemis campaign and the first crewed mission beyond low Earth orbit since Apollo. 

“Through the Artemis campaign, NASA will send astronauts to explore the Moon for scientific discovery, economic benefits, and to build the foundation for the first crewed missions to Mars – for the benefit of all.” – NASA

Businesses across the St. Louis region and Eastern Missouri are recognized as Artemis partners, which contributed components to NASA’s Space Launch System and developed parts for the Orion spacecraft designed to carry astronauts around the Moon. Boeing, with major operations in the St. Louis region, led work on lunar technology development and exploration ground systems.

“Men and women across America and around the world are building the systems to support missions to the Moon, Mars, and beyond. These missions are critical to an expanding space economy, fueling new industries and technologies, supporting job growth, and furthering the demand for a highly skilled workforce.” – NASA

From precision machining and advanced materials to electrical systems and tooling, Missouri manufacturers are embedded throughout the Artemis supply chain. Companies in communities like Hazelwood, Washington, O’Fallon, St. Charles, and beyond are proving that world-class aerospace manufacturing thrives in the heart of the country.

As Artemis II moves NASA closer to the Moon and, ultimately, Mars, Missouri’s manufacturing expertise is helping turn one of humanity’s boldest ambitions into reality.

Learn more about Missouri’s expertise in advanced manufacturing.