Mercer Island man shares what it means to see brother as Commander of Artemis II mission
KOMO • • science
Key Points:
- Reid Wiseman, Commander of the Artemis II mission, is leading a four-person crew on a historic journey toward the moon, pushing the boundaries of spaceflight.
- Bill Wiseman, Reid's brother, witnessed the powerful Artemis II launch at Kennedy Space Center alongside family and notable figures from Reid's past, including a surgeon who helped him qualify as a pilot.
- Reid's extensive background includes being a Navy fighter pilot, mastering Russian for space missions, and piloting a Russian Soyuz rocket to the International Space Station in 2014, where he became known for his "Earth art" photography.
- Communication between the brothers continues during the mission, with Reid staying connected via email and virtual calls with his daughters, while Bill supports him emotionally, especially concerning family worries amid the mission's risks.
- The brothers maintain a unique tradition of exchanging $2 bills before risky endeavors, symbolizing their bond and shared experiences, with Bill eagerly awaiting Reid’s safe return after the 10-day mission.
