Majority Whip Frank Carroll Celebrates Successful Artemis II Launch, Highlights Arizona's Critical Role in American Leadership in Space
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Wednesday, April 1, 2026
PHOENIX, ARIZONA—Senate Majority Whip Frank Carroll is celebrating the successful launch of the Artemis II spacecraft, a major milestone as the United States advances its mission to return humans to deep space and reestablish leadership beyond low-Earth orbit.
The launch marks the first crewed Artemis mission and a critical step toward future lunar exploration, positioning the United States—and Arizona—at the forefront of innovation, national security, and economic growth tied to the aerospace sector.
Arizona companies are playing key roles. Honeywell in Glendale developed critical Orion spacecraft systems, including guidance and navigation, displays and controls that astronauts will rely on during the flight, command and data handling hardware, core flight software, and vibration-dampening technology. Northrop Grumman's Gilbert facility is also contributing by supporting broader Artemis elements like the HALO capsule for future missions, while the company's solid rocket boosters provide massive thrust and safety systems powering this historic launch.
Senator Carroll serves as Chair of the Aerospace States Association (ASA), representing states working to strengthen America's aerospace leadership and the industries driving innovation and job creation, including right here in Arizona.
"This is more than a launch, it's a signal to the world that America is leading again in space exploration," said Senator Carroll. "Artemis II reflects the strength of our aerospace workforce, the ingenuity of American innovation, and the kind of long-term investment that drives economic growth here at home. States like Arizona play a direct role in that success, supporting high-skilled jobs, advanced manufacturing, and the next generation of engineers and scientists. We thank President Trump for his vision in restoring focus and direction to America's space program and ensuring we remain competitive on the global stage. On behalf of the Aerospace States Association and its member states, we congratulate the team behind this mission and wish the crew a safe and successful journey as they carry the hopes of a nation with them."
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For more information, contact:
Kim Quintero
Director of Communications | Arizona State Senate Republican Caucus
kquintero@azleg.gov