Watching Artemis II return to earth’s atmosphere yesterday, it occurred to me that watching a space mission is a bit like watching the Olympics.  

You discover a new event, learn a whole lot of new words, and almost immediately think you know what you’re talking about - but really you’re a novice and have no idea of the complexity involved in what you’re watching.  

But regardless of how much you understand about the engineering, physics and tech behind what has just taken place over the last 10 days, it’s been easy to be awed by this historic mission, which sent humans further into space than ever before.  

The photos and descriptions of the Earth and moon from the 4 astronauts aboard Artemis II, have drawn us in.  

But for all the poetic touches and strategic messaging about this being a mission to unite humanity - it’s what comes next that has really captured my attention. With the success of both Artemis I and II, the vision of building a base on the moon has become that much more realistic.  

Not since 1970 and Apollo 13 have humans ventured this far from Earth. That’s a pause longer than my lifetime. After the Apollo era, NASA’s priorities shifted to programs such as the Space Shuttle program and the International Space Station, which were focused on the low Earth orbit.

But the focus now is on testing and advancing new exploration systems that will allow humans to live in space. Through the Artemis programme scientists have learned valuable lessons about deep-space radiation, Orion’s spacecraft, life support and propulsion systems and re-entry heat protection.  

The benefits of the Artemis II mission extend beyond NASA. Private companies, such as SpaceX and other aerospace contractors, gain opportunities to develop new technologies and expand the commercial space industry. Governments and international partners also benefit by strengthening diplomatic relationships and shared science. 

Over the years there has been a lot of discussion about whether humans should return to the moon, at what cost and for what purpose? But this mission has reignited something in many of us. There is something captivating about pushing the boundaries of what is possible, of laying the groundwork for future discoveries that could benefit life on Earth and expand our presence into space.  

I may not understand the physics required to make this all happen, and I have no idea how far things we’ll get in my lifetime, but the knowledge we’re on our way is inspiring. 

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• Moon shot: 6 incredible photos taken by Artemis II astronauts
• 'See you on the other side': Artemis astronauts pass behind moon, communications cut

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