Promise Ledger

NASA: public spaceflight commitments

United States space agency. These are the dated public commitments by NASA and its people that we could source to a primary, with what happened.

15 entries: 4 met; 1 missed; 9 revised; 1 withdrawn.

Plain counts, not a grade or a ranking. A short record is not a complete one. Checked against sources on Sep 26, 2026; scoring rules on the methodology page.

This first release is a selection, and a short record is not a complete record. Each programme milestone enters the ledger at its earliest dated public commitment we can find in a primary source, for governments and companies alike. Later dated commitments for the same milestone are shown on that one entry as a revision chain, oldest first, rather than as separate entries.

Entries

Met

Met late

Missed

Revised

Withdrawn

Pending

What the statuses mean

Met:: happened on or before the deadline.
Missed:: the deadline passed without it (confirmed).
Revised:: the date or quantity was moved before it came due.
Withdrawn:: the goal was dropped or the programme cancelled.

Includes statements by: Jim Bridenstine

Entries, soonest deadline first

StatusClaim typeOrganisation

First SLS flight (Exploration Mission-1, later Artemis I) no later than November 2018
Revised · worded as a commitment
First flight · NASA
“a launch readiness schedule based on an initial SLS flight no later than November 2018”
Said Aug 27, 2014. Source: NASA: NASA Completes Key Review of World’s Most Powerful Rocket in Support of Journey to Mars (RELEASE 14-229) (Aug 27, 2014, paragraph 2)
Context: SLS Key Decision Point C commitment. Exploration Mission-1 was renamed Artemis I in 2019. The same release quotes William Gerstenmaier: "will be ready no later than November 2018."
Deadline
“no later than November 2018”, read as Nov 30, 2018 (month precision)Worded as a commitment ("will")
Counts as met when
SLS lifts off on its first flight (Artemis I, formerly EM-1).
Later dated commitments for the same milestone
1. Nov 8, 2017, Robert Lightfoot (Acting NASA Administrator): “While the review of the possible manufacturing and production schedule risks indicate a launch date of June 2020, the agency is managing to December 2019” (new date as stated: managing to December 2019, read as Dec 31, 2019). RevisedSource: NASA: NASA Completes Review of First SLS, Orion Deep Space Exploration Mission (Nov 8, 2017, Lightfoot quote)
2. Mar 26, 2019, Jim Bridenstine (NASA Administrator): “Stay on schedule for flying Exploration Mission-1 with Orion on the Space Launch System (SLS) rocket next year” (new date as stated: next year, read as Dec 31, 2020). RevisedSource: NASA: NASA Administrator Statement on Return to Moon in Next Five Years (RELEASE 19-022) (Mar 26, 2019, statement, paragraph 1)
3. Sep 21, 2020: “The first mission ... is on track for 2021 without astronauts” (new date as stated: on track for 2021, read as Dec 31, 2021). RevisedSource: NASA: NASA Publishes Artemis Plan to Land First Woman, Next Man on Moon in 2024 (RELEASE 20-092) (Sep 21, 2020, paragraph 5)
4. Oct 22, 2021: “a series of integrated tests now sit between the mega-Moon rocket and targeted liftoff for deep space in February 2022.” (new date as stated: February 2022, read as Feb 28, 2022). Met lateSource: NASA: NASA Fully Stacked for Moon Mission, Readies for Artemis I (Oct 22, 2021, paragraph 2)
The counts use the original commitment. The latest date in the chain stands as: met late.
Outcome: SLS lifted off on the uncrewed Artemis I mission at 1:47 a.m. EST on 2022-11-16 from Launch Pad 39B. (Nov 16, 2022, 261 days after the latest deadline)
Outcome source: NASA: Liftoff! NASA’s Artemis I Mega Rocket Launches Orion to Moon (RELEASE 22-117) (Nov 16, 2022)
Checked against the source on Sep 26, 2026. Report a correction or send a response to this entry
First CLPS science on the lunar surface in 2020
Revised · worded as a commitment
Landing · Jim Bridenstine, NASA Administrator · NASA
“Next year, our initial science and technology research will be on the lunar surface”
Said May 31, 2019. Source: NASA: NASA Selects First Commercial Moon Landing Services for Artemis Program (May 31, 2019, paragraph 2 (Bridenstine quote))
Context: Said when NASA announced its first three CLPS lander task orders.
Deadline
“Next year”, read as Dec 31, 2020 (year precision)Worded as a commitment ("will")
Counts as met when
A CLPS lander carrying NASA science or technology payloads makes a successful soft landing on the Moon.
Later dated commitments for the same milestone
1. Sep 21, 2020, Jim Bridenstine (NASA Administrator): “We will return to the Moon robotically beginning next year” (new date as stated: beginning next year (2021), read as Dec 31, 2021). Met lateSource: NASA: NASA's Lunar Exploration Program Overview (Artemis Plan), Foreword by Jim Bridenstine (Sep 21, 2020, page 8, Foreword by Jim Bridenstine, paragraph 4)
The counts use the original commitment. The latest date in the chain stands as: met late.
Outcome: Intuitive Machines' IM-1 (Odysseus) touched down in the lunar South Pole region on 2024-02-22 with NASA instruments aboard; NASA describes IM-1 as the mission "which landed, tipped over, and operated on the lunar surface". (Feb 22, 2024, 783 days after the latest deadline)
Outcome source: NASA: Fourth Launch of NASA Instruments Planned for Near Moon's South Pole (Feb 26, 2025)
Checked against the source on Sep 26, 2026. Report a correction or send a response to this entry
CLPS deliveries to the Moon twice per year beginning in 2021
Missed · worded as a commitment
Launch cadence · NASA
“using commercial delivery services to send dozens of new science investigations and technology demonstrations to the Moon twice per year beginning in 2021”
Said Sep 21, 2020. Source: NASA: NASA Publishes Artemis Plan to Land First Woman, Next Man on Moon in 2024 (RELEASE 20-092) (Sep 21, 2020, paragraph 4)
Context: Artemis Plan release. The sentence begins "NASA already will be back on the Moon robotically".
Deadline
“twice per year beginning in 2021”, read as Dec 31, 2021 (year precision)Worded as a commitment ("will")
Counts as met when
At least two CLPS lander missions launch to the Moon in 2021, the first year of the stated cadence.
Outcome: No CLPS mission launched in 2021, 2022 or 2023. Intuitive Machines' IM-1, carrying NASA instruments, touched down on 2024-02-22. No NASA statement moving the 2021 start was found.
Outcome source: NASA: NASA Collects First Surface Science in Decades via Commercial Moon Mission (Mar 1, 2024)
Checked against the source on Sep 26, 2026. Report a correction or send a response to this entry
First Gateway element (power and propulsion element) launch in late 2022
Revised · worded as a target
Station or module · NASA
“NASA is targeting launch of the power and propulsion element on a commercial rocket in late 2022.”
Said May 23, 2019. Source: NASA: NASA Awards Artemis Contract for Lunar Gateway Power, Propulsion (RELEASE 19-042) (May 23, 2019, paragraph 3)
Context: Release on the Maxar power and propulsion element award. In 2020 NASA combined the element with the habitation and logistics outpost (HALO) for a single launch.
Deadline
“in late 2022”, read as Dec 31, 2022 (year precision)Worded as a target ("targeting", "plan", "expect", "no earlier than")
Counts as met when
The first Gateway element (PPE, later co-manifested with HALO) lifts off.
Later dated commitments for the same milestone
1. Sep 21, 2020: “NASA will integrate the first two components to launch – the power and propulsion element and the habitation and logistics outpost – in 2023.” (new date as stated: in 2023, read as Dec 31, 2023). RevisedSource: NASA: NASA Publishes Artemis Plan to Land First Woman, Next Man on Moon in 2024 (RELEASE 20-092) (Sep 21, 2020, Gateway paragraph)
2. Feb 9, 2021: “After integration on Earth, the PPE and HALO are targeted to launch together no earlier than May 2024” (new date as stated: no earlier than May 2024, read as May 31, 2024). RevisedSource: NASA: NASA Awards Contract to Launch Initial Elements for Lunar Outpost (RELEASE 21-015) (Feb 9, 2021, paragraph 2)
3. Jan 9, 2024: “NASA is reviewing the schedule for launching the first integrated elements of Gateway, previously planned for October 2025, to provide additional development time and better align that launch with the Artemis IV mission in 2028.” (new date as stated: none given (previously October 2025; under review to align with Artemis IV in 2028)). PendingSource: NASA: NASA Shares Progress Toward Early Artemis Moon Missions with Crew (RELEASE 24-006) (Jan 9, 2024, paragraph 1)
The counts use the original commitment. The latest date in the chain stands as: pending.
Outcome: No Gateway element had launched as of 2026-09-26. GAO’s 2026 assessment lists Gateway Initial Capability among the projects NASA announced plans to pause.
Outcome source: U.S. Government Accountability Office: NASA: Assessments of Major Projects (GAO-26-108556) (Jul 23, 2026)
Checked against the source on Sep 26, 2026. Report a correction or send a response to this entry
First crewed Orion/SLS mission (EM-2, later Artemis II) ready to launch by April 2023
Revised · worded as a commitment
Crewed milestone · NASA
“a commitment to be ready for a launch with astronauts no later than April 2023”
Said Sep 16, 2015. Source: NASA: NASA Completes Key Milestone for Orion Spacecraft in Support of Journey to Mars (RELEASE 15-185) (Sep 16, 2015, paragraph 2)
Context: Orion Key Decision Point C (KDP-C) commitment. The first crewed mission, then called Exploration Mission-2 (EM-2), was renamed Artemis II in 2019.
Deadline
“no later than April 2023”, read as Apr 30, 2023 (month precision)Worded as a commitment ("will")
Counts as met when
Artemis II (formerly EM-2) lifts off with its crew aboard.
Later dated commitments for the same milestone
1. Mar 26, 2019, Jim Bridenstine (NASA Administrator): “Stay on schedule for flying Exploration Mission-1 with Orion on the Space Launch System (SLS) rocket next year, and for sending the first crewed mission to the lunar vicinity by 2022.” (new date as stated: by 2022, read as Dec 31, 2022). RevisedSource: NASA: NASA Administrator Statement on Return to Moon in Next Five Years (RELEASE 19-022) (Mar 26, 2019, statement, paragraph 1)
2. Sep 21, 2020: “Artemis II will fly with crew in 2023.” (new date as stated: in 2023, read as Dec 31, 2023). RevisedSource: NASA: NASA Publishes Artemis Plan to Land First Woman, Next Man on Moon in 2024 (RELEASE 20-092) (Sep 21, 2020, paragraph 5)
3. Nov 9, 2021: “Nelson announced the Orion spacecraft development cost now is $9.3 billion from fiscal year 2012 through the first crewed flight test no later than May 2024.” (new date as stated: no later than May 2024, read as May 31, 2024). RevisedSource: NASA: NASA Outlines Challenges, Progress for Artemis Moon Missions (RELEASE 21-151) (Nov 9, 2021, paragraph 4)
4. Jan 9, 2024: “NASA will now target September 2025 for Artemis II, the first crewed Artemis mission around the Moon” (new date as stated: September 2025, read as Sep 30, 2025). RevisedSource: NASA: NASA Shares Progress Toward Early Artemis Moon Missions with Crew (RELEASE 24-006) (Jan 9, 2024, paragraph 1)
5. Dec 5, 2024: “The agency also announced it is now targeting April 2026 for Artemis II and mid-2027 for Artemis III.” (new date as stated: April 2026, read as Apr 30, 2026). MetSource: NASA: NASA Shares Orion Heat Shield Findings, Updates Artemis Moon Missions (RELEASE 24-145) (Dec 5, 2024)
The counts use the original commitment. The latest date in the chain stands as: met.
Outcome: SLS lifted off from Launch Pad 39B at Kennedy Space Center at 6:35 p.m. EDT on 2026-04-01 with four astronauts aboard Orion. (Apr 1, 2026, on or before the latest deadline)
Outcome source: NASA: Liftoff! NASA Launches Astronauts on Historic Artemis Moon Mission (RELEASE 26-026) (Apr 1, 2026)
Checked against the source on Sep 26, 2026. Report a correction or send a response to this entry
Starliner Crew Flight Test launch no earlier than July 21, 2023
Revised · worded as a target
Crewed milestone · NASA (NASA (with Boeing))
“NASA and Boeing’s Crew Flight Test (CFT), planned no earlier than July 21, 2023, is the first crewed flight of the Starliner system”
Said Apr 14, 2023. Source: NASA (Commercial Crew blog): NASA Updates Commercial Crew Planning Manifest Through 2024 (Apr 14, 2023, section: NASA's Boeing Crew Flight Test)
Context: NASA commercial crew planning manifest, published with partners Boeing and SpaceX.
Deadline
“no earlier than July 21, 2023” (no earlier than), read as Jul 21, 2023 (day precision)Worded as a target ("targeting", "plan", "expect", "no earlier than")
Counts as met when
Starliner lifts off on the Crew Flight Test with its crew aboard.
Later dated commitments for the same milestone
1. Jun 1, 2023: “managers shared they have made the decision to stand down on a July launch attempt for CFT to take time to address recent emerging issues” (new date as stated: no new date given). MetSource: NASA (Commercial Crew blog): NASA, Boeing Adjust Starliner Crew Flight Test Date (Jun 1, 2023)
The counts use the original commitment. The latest date in the chain stands as: met.
Outcome: The Crew Flight Test launched with Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams at 10:52 a.m. ET on 2024-06-05 (Boeing). Starliner returned uncrewed in September 2024 and the two astronauts returned on SpaceX Crew-9 in March 2025 (NASA, 2026-02-19). (Jun 5, 2024)
Outcome source: Boeing: Boeing Starliner Spacecraft Completes Successful Launch (Jun 5, 2024)
Checked against the source on Sep 26, 2026. Report a correction or send a response to this entry
Crew-7 launch in mid-August 2023
Met · worded as a target
Crewed milestone · NASA
“NASA and SpaceX are targeting mid-August for the launch of Crew-7”
Said Apr 5, 2023. Source: NASA (Commercial Crew Program blog): NASA, SpaceX Target Mid-August for Crew-7 Launch (Apr 5, 2023, paragraph 1)
Deadline
“mid-August”, read as Aug 31, 2023 (month precision)Worded as a target ("targeting", "plan", "expect", "no earlier than")
Counts as met when
Crew-7 lifts off with its crew aboard by 31 August 2023.
Outcome: Crew-7 launched at 3:27 a.m. EDT on 2023-08-26 from Launch Complex 39A and reached orbit. (Aug 26, 2023, on or before the deadline)
Outcome source: NASA: NASA’s SpaceX Crew-7 Launches to International Space Station (RELEASE 23-094) (Aug 26, 2023)
Checked against the source on Sep 26, 2026. Report a correction or send a response to this entry
Psyche launch in October 2023 (Discovery selection)
Met · worded as a target
Launch · NASA
“Psyche, also a robotic mission, is targeted to launch in October of 2023”
Said Jan 4, 2017. Source: NASA: NASA Selects Two Missions to Explore the Early Solar System (RELEASE 17-003) (Jan 4, 2017, paragraph 4)
Context: NASA release selecting Lucy and Psyche for the Discovery Program. The launch was later moved earlier to 2022, then back to October 2023.
Deadline
“in October of 2023”, read as Oct 31, 2023 (month precision)Worded as a target ("targeting", "plan", "expect", "no earlier than")
Counts as met when
Psyche lifts off.
Later dated commitments for the same milestone
1. May 24, 2017: “Psyche, NASA's mission to a unique metal asteroid, has moved up one year, with launch in the summer of 2022” (new date as stated: in the summer of 2022, read as Sep 30, 2022). Met lateSource: NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory: NASA Moves Up Launch of Psyche Mission to a Metal Asteroid (2017-149) (May 24, 2017, paragraph 1)
2. Feb 28, 2020: “The Psyche mission currently is targeted to launch in July 2022” (new date as stated: July 2022, read as Jul 31, 2022). RevisedSource: NASA: NASA Awards Launch Services Contract for the Psyche Mission (C20-006) (Feb 28, 2020, paragraph 1)
3. Feb 2, 2021: “the final phase of operations prior to its scheduled launch in August 2022” (new date as stated: August 2022, read as Aug 31, 2022). RevisedSource: NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory (on nasa.gov): NASA’s Psyche Mission Moves Forward, Passing Key Milestone (Feb 2, 2021, paragraph 1)
4. Jun 24, 2022: “NASA announced Friday the Psyche asteroid mission, the agency’s first mission designed to study a metal-rich asteroid, will not make its planned 2022 launch attempt.” (new date as stated: none given). RevisedSource: NASA: NASA Announces Launch Delay for Psyche Asteroid Mission (RELEASE 22-066) (Jun 24, 2022, paragraph 1)
5. Oct 28, 2022: “NASA announced Friday the agency decided its Psyche mission will go forward, targeting a launch period opening on Oct. 10, 2023.” (new date as stated: a launch period opening on Oct. 10, 2023, read as Oct 31, 2023). MetSource: NASA: NASA Continues Psyche Asteroid Mission (Oct 28, 2022, paragraph 1)
The counts use the original commitment. The latest date in the chain stands as: met.
Outcome: Psyche launched on a Falcon Heavy from Kennedy Space Center on 2023-10-13. (Oct 13, 2023, on or before the deadline)
Outcome source: NASA: Launching to a Metal-Rich Asteroid (Oct 16, 2023)
Checked against the source on Sep 26, 2026. Report a correction or send a response to this entry
Crew-8 launch no earlier than February 2024
Revised · worded as a target
Crewed milestone · NASA
“NASA’s SpaceX Crew-8: NET February 2024”
Said Apr 14, 2023. Source: NASA (Commercial Crew Program blog): NASA Updates Commercial Crew Planning Manifest Through 2024 (Apr 14, 2023, Target Launch Manifest list)
Context: NASA commercial crew planning manifest.
Deadline
“NET February 2024” (no earlier than), read as Feb 29, 2024 (month precision)Worded as a target ("targeting", "plan", "expect", "no earlier than")
Counts as met when
Crew-8 lifts off with its crew aboard by 29 February 2024.
Later dated commitments for the same milestone
1. Oct 12, 2023: “NASA’s SpaceX Crew-8 mission to the orbiting laboratory is targeted to launch no earlier than mid-February.” (new date as stated: no earlier than mid-February, read as Feb 29, 2024). RevisedSource: NASA (Space Station blog): NASA Updates Commercial Crew Planning Manifest (Oct 12, 2023, Crew-8 section)
2. Feb 15, 2024: “NASA and SpaceX teams adjusted the launch date for the Crew-8 mission to no earlier than 12:04 a.m. EST Friday, March 1.” (new date as stated: no earlier than 12:04 a.m. EST Friday, March 1, read as Mar 1, 2024). Met lateSource: NASA (Commercial Crew Program blog): NASA, SpaceX Target March 1 for Crew-8 Launch to Space Station (Feb 15, 2024, paragraph 1)
3. Mar 2, 2024: “NASA and SpaceX now are targeting 10:53 p.m. EST Sunday, March 3” (new date as stated: 10:53 p.m. EST Sunday, March 3, read as Mar 3, 2024). MetSource: NASA (Space Station blog): NASA, SpaceX Target Crew-8 Launch for Sunday, March 3 on Weather Concerns (Mar 2, 2024, paragraph 1)
The counts use the original commitment. The latest date in the chain stands as: met.
Outcome: Crew-8 launched at 10:53 p.m. EST on 2024-03-03 (03:53 UTC on 2024-03-04) from Launch Complex 39A and reached orbit. (Mar 3, 2024, on or before the latest deadline)
Outcome source: NASA: NASA’s SpaceX Crew-8 Launches to International Space Station (RELEASE 24-035) (Mar 3, 2024)
Checked against the source on Sep 26, 2026. Report a correction or send a response to this entry
Europa Clipper launch in October 2024
Met · worded as a commitment
Launch · NASA
“The Europa Clipper mission will launch in October 2024 on a Falcon Heavy rocket”
Said Jul 23, 2021. Source: NASA: NASA Awards Launch Services Contract for Europa Clipper Mission (Jul 23, 2021, paragraph 2)
Deadline
“October 2024”, read as Oct 31, 2024 (month precision)Worded as a commitment ("will")
Counts as met when
Europa Clipper lifts off.
Outcome: Europa Clipper launched on a Falcon Heavy from Launch Complex 39A at 12:06 p.m. EDT on 2024-10-14. (Oct 14, 2024, on or before the deadline)
Outcome source: NASA: Liftoff! NASA's Europa Clipper Sails Toward Ocean Moon of Jupiter (Oct 14, 2024)
Checked against the source on Sep 26, 2026. Report a correction or send a response to this entry
VIPER rover delivered to the lunar South Pole in November 2024
Withdrawn · worded as a target
Landing · NASA
“NASA has requested the Astrobotic and VIPER mission teams to adjust VIPER’s delivery to the Moon’s South Pole to November 2024.”
Said Jul 18, 2022. Source: NASA: NASA Replans CLPS Delivery of VIPER to 2024 to Reduce Risk (Jul 18, 2022, paragraph 1)
Context: VIPER was to land on Astrobotic's Griffin lander under CLPS; it had been scheduled for November 2023.
Deadline
“November 2024”, read as Nov 30, 2024 (month precision)Worded as a target ("targeting", "plan", "expect", "no earlier than")
Counts as met when
Griffin makes a successful soft landing delivering VIPER at the lunar South Pole.
Outcome: On 2024-07-17 NASA announced its intent to discontinue VIPER development, citing cost increases, launch delays and the risk of further cost growth. On 2025-09-19 NASA awarded Blue Origin a CLPS task order with an option to deliver VIPER to the lunar South Pole in late 2027 on a second Blue Moon MK1 lander (RELEASE 25-064); no delivery took place in November 2024.
Outcome source: NASA: NASA Ends VIPER Project, Continues Moon Exploration (Jul 17, 2024)
Checked against the source on Sep 26, 2026. Report a correction or send a response to this entry
Crewed landing at the Moon’s South Pole by 2024
Revised · worded as a commitment
Landing · Jim Bridenstine, NASA Administrator · NASA
“We are tasked with landing on the Moon’s South Pole by 2024.”
Said Mar 26, 2019. Source: NASA: NASA Administrator Statement on Return to Moon in Next Five Years (RELEASE 19-022) (Mar 26, 2019, statement, paragraph 1)
Context: Statement after Vice President Mike Pence’s announcement at the fifth National Space Council meeting; the landing later became the Artemis III mission.
Deadline
“by 2024”, read as Dec 31, 2024 (year precision)Worded as a commitment ("will")
Counts as met when
Astronauts make a successful soft landing on the Moon in the South Pole region.
Later dated commitments for the same milestone
1. Sep 21, 2020: “In 2024, Artemis III will be humanity’s return to the surface of the Moon” (new date as stated: In 2024, read as Dec 31, 2024). RevisedSource: NASA: NASA Publishes Artemis Plan to Land First Woman, Next Man on Moon in 2024 (RELEASE 20-092) (Sep 21, 2020, paragraph 3)
2. Nov 9, 2021: “the first human landing under Artemis is likely no earlier than 2025” (new date as stated: likely no earlier than 2025 (NASA Administrator Bill Nelson), read as Dec 31, 2025). RevisedSource: NASA: NASA Outlines Challenges, Progress for Artemis Moon Missions (Nov 9, 2021)
3. Jan 9, 2024: “NASA will now target September 2025 for Artemis II ... and September 2026 for Artemis III, which is planned to land the first astronauts near the lunar South Pole.” (new date as stated: September 2026, read as Sep 30, 2026). RevisedSource: NASA: NASA Shares Progress Toward Early Artemis Moon Missions with Crew (RELEASE 24-006) (Jan 9, 2024, paragraph 1)
4. Dec 5, 2024: “The agency also announced it is now targeting ... mid-2027 for Artemis III.” (new date as stated: mid-2027, read as Sep 30, 2027). RevisedSource: NASA: NASA Shares Orion Heat Shield Findings, Updates Artemis Moon Missions (RELEASE 24-145) (Dec 5, 2024, paragraph 1)
5. Feb 27, 2026: “the Artemis III mission, now in 2027, will be designed to test out systems and operational capabilities in low Earth orbit to prepare for an Artemis IV landing in 2028” (new date as stated: an Artemis IV landing in 2028, read as Dec 31, 2028). PendingSource: NASA: NASA Adds Mission to Artemis Lunar Program, Updates Architecture (RELEASE 26-022) (Feb 27, 2026)
The counts use the original commitment. The latest date in the chain stands as: pending.
Outcome: No crewed landing on the Moon's South Pole took place by the end of 2024. NASA's 2026-02-27 update moved Artemis III to 2027 as a low Earth orbit test mission and planned the first landing for Artemis IV in 2028.
Outcome source: NASA: NASA Adds Mission to Artemis Lunar Program, Updates Architecture (RELEASE 26-022) (Feb 27, 2026)
Checked against the source on Sep 26, 2026. Report a correction or send a response to this entry
Uncrewed Starliner-1 cargo flight no earlier than April 2026
Revised · worded as a target
Launch · NASA (NASA (with Boeing))
“NASA and Boeing are targeting no earlier than April 2026 to fly the uncrewed Starliner-1 pending completion of rigorous test, certification, and mission readiness activities.”
Said Nov 24, 2025. Source: NASA (Commercial Crew blog): NASA, Boeing Modify Commercial Crew Contract (Nov 24, 2025, paragraph 2)
Context: Announced with a contract modification that set the firm Starliner order at four missions.
Deadline
“no earlier than April 2026” (no earlier than), read as Apr 30, 2026 (month precision)Worded as a target ("targeting", "plan", "expect", "no earlier than")
Counts as met when
Starliner-1 lifts off.
Later dated commitments for the same milestone
1. Apr 22, 2026 (Boeing (SEC Form 10-Q)): “We expect to launch an uncrewed mission no earlier than June 2026 and a crewed mission later in 2026.” (new date as stated: no earlier than June 2026, read as Jun 30, 2026). MissedSource: The Boeing Company (SEC Form 10-Q): Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2026 (Apr 22, 2026, Note 10 (Liabilities, Commitments and Contingencies), Commercial Crew paragraph, page 17)
2. Jul 28, 2026 (Boeing (SEC Form 10-Q)): “Based on recent discussions with NASA, we now expect to complete an uncrewed mission no earlier than the fourth quarter of 2026.” (new date as stated: no earlier than the fourth quarter of 2026, read as Dec 31, 2026). PendingSource: The Boeing Company (SEC Form 10-Q): Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2026 (Jul 28, 2026, Note 10 (Liabilities, Commitments and Contingencies), Commercial Crew paragraph, page 18)
The counts use the original commitment. The latest date in the chain stands as: pending.
Outcome: Starliner-1 had not launched by 2026-09-26. On 2026-05-01 NASA said its launch opportunities "remain under review as teams continue working through technical issues discovered during the Crew Flight Test in 2024"; Boeing's 10-Q filed 2026-07-28 says it now expects to complete an uncrewed mission no earlier than the fourth quarter of 2026.
Outcome source: NASA (Commercial Crew blog): NASA, Partners Update International Space Station 2026 Flight Plan (May 1, 2026)
Checked against the source on Sep 26, 2026. Report a correction or send a response to this entry
Dragonfly launch in 2026
Revised · worded as a commitment
Launch · NASA
“Dragonfly will launch in 2026 and arrive in 2034.”
Said Jun 27, 2019. Source: NASA: NASA’s Dragonfly Will Fly Around Titan Looking for Origins, Signs of Life (RELEASE 19-052) (Jun 27, 2019, paragraph 2)
Context: NASA release selecting Dragonfly as the fourth New Frontiers mission.
Deadline
“in 2026”, read as Dec 31, 2026 (year precision)Worded as a commitment ("will")
Counts as met when
Dragonfly lifts off.
Later dated commitments for the same milestone
1. Sep 25, 2020: “NASA has requested the Dragonfly team pursue their alternative launch readiness date in 2027.” (new date as stated: in 2027, read as Dec 31, 2027). RevisedSource: NASA: Dragonfly Launch Moved to 2027 (Sep 25, 2020, paragraph 1 (below the undated UPDATE note))
2. Apr 16, 2024: “Dragonfly is confirmed with a total lifecycle cost of $3.35 billion and a launch date of July 2028.” (new date as stated: July 2028, read as Jul 31, 2028). PendingSource: NASA Science: NASA’s Dragonfly Rotorcraft Mission to Saturn’s Moon Titan Confirmed (Apr 16, 2024, paragraph 4)
3. Nov 25, 2024: “The Dragonfly mission currently has a targeted launch period from July 5, 2028, to July 25, 2028” (new date as stated: a targeted launch period from July 5, 2028, to July 25, 2028, read as Jul 25, 2028). PendingSource: NASA: NASA Awards Launch Services Contract for Dragonfly Mission (C24-042) (Nov 25, 2024, paragraph 2)
The counts use the original commitment. The latest date in the chain stands as: pending.
Outcome: Not launched as of 2026-09-26. A NASA blog post of 2026-04-23 says Dragonfly is scheduled to launch no earlier than 2028.
Outcome source: NASA Science (Dragonfly blog): NASA’s Dragonfly Rotorcraft Gets Decked Out, Tested (Apr 23, 2026)
Checked against the source on Sep 26, 2026. Report a correction or send a response to this entry
Roman Space Telescope launch no later than May 2027 (COVID-19 replan)
Met · worded as a commitment
Launch · NASA
“Roman is now slated to launch no later than May 2027.”
Said Oct 14, 2021. Source: NASA: NASA Confirms Roman Mission’s Flight Design in Milestone Review (Oct 14, 2021, Editor’s Note, 14 Oct. 2021)
Context: Dated editor’s note (14 Oct. 2021) on a NASA article of 2021-09-29; the replan committed a launch date and a $4.3 billion lifecycle cost. No earlier dated NASA launch date was found (the March 2020 approval article gives none).
Deadline
“no later than May 2027”, read as May 31, 2027 (month precision)Worded as a commitment ("will")
Counts as met when
The Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope lifts off.
Later dated commitments for the same milestone
1. Jul 19, 2022: “The telescope’s mission currently is targeted to launch in October 2026, as specified in the contract” (new date as stated: October 2026, read as Oct 31, 2026). MetSource: NASA: NASA Awards Launch Services Contract for Roman Space Telescope (Jul 19, 2022, paragraph 2)
The counts use the original commitment. The latest date in the chain stands as: met.
Outcome: Roman launched on a Falcon Heavy from Launch Complex 39A at 7:26 a.m. EDT on 2026-08-30; NASA said the launch date had been moved earlier to match the telescope's early completion. (Aug 30, 2026, on or before the deadline)
Outcome source: NASA: NASA's Dark Universe-Seeking Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope Launches (Aug 30, 2026)
Checked against the source on Sep 26, 2026. Report a correction or send a response to this entry

Corrections, responses and submissions

Something wrong? Report a correction with the entry and a source. Every entry also has its own link.
An organisation named here can send its public response to an entry through the same link; a dated, sourced response is shown on the entry.
Know a dated public commitment we have not listed? Submit it with the exact words and a primary source (the speaker's own post, video with a timestamp, release, filing or transcript).
The same rules and the same standard of evidence apply to everyone. Confirmed changes are logged on the corrections page with the date.

Open data: download the whole ledger (CSV, CC BY 4.0). Cite as “SpaceNexus Promise Ledger” with a link. How entries are scored: methodology. No sponsor, advertiser or partner can add, remove, reorder, annotate or preview an entry, and these pages carry no advertising.

The whole Promise Ledger, with every organisation and person, and the topic trackers.

NASA: public spaceflight commitments

United States space agency. These are the dated public commitments by NASA and its people that we could source to a primary, with what happened.

15 entries: 4 met; 1 missed; 9 revised; 1 withdrawn.

Plain counts, not a grade or a ranking. A short record is not a complete one. Checked against sources on Sep 26, 2026; scoring rules on the methodology page.

Entries

Met

Met late

Missed

Revised

Withdrawn

Pending

What the statuses mean

Met:: happened on or before the deadline.
Missed:: the deadline passed without it (confirmed).
Revised:: the date or quantity was moved before it came due.
Withdrawn:: the goal was dropped or the programme cancelled.

Includes statements by: Jim Bridenstine

Entries, soonest deadline first

StatusClaim typeOrganisation

First SLS flight (Exploration Mission-1, later Artemis I) no later than November 2018
Revised · worded as a commitment
First flight · NASA
“a launch readiness schedule based on an initial SLS flight no later than November 2018”
Said Aug 27, 2014. Source: NASA: NASA Completes Key Review of World’s Most Powerful Rocket in Support of Journey to Mars (RELEASE 14-229) (Aug 27, 2014, paragraph 2)
Context: SLS Key Decision Point C commitment. Exploration Mission-1 was renamed Artemis I in 2019. The same release quotes William Gerstenmaier: "will be ready no later than November 2018."
Deadline
“no later than November 2018”, read as Nov 30, 2018 (month precision)Worded as a commitment ("will")
Counts as met when
SLS lifts off on its first flight (Artemis I, formerly EM-1).
Later dated commitments for the same milestone
1. Nov 8, 2017, Robert Lightfoot (Acting NASA Administrator): “While the review of the possible manufacturing and production schedule risks indicate a launch date of June 2020, the agency is managing to December 2019” (new date as stated: managing to December 2019, read as Dec 31, 2019). RevisedSource: NASA: NASA Completes Review of First SLS, Orion Deep Space Exploration Mission (Nov 8, 2017, Lightfoot quote)
2. Mar 26, 2019, Jim Bridenstine (NASA Administrator): “Stay on schedule for flying Exploration Mission-1 with Orion on the Space Launch System (SLS) rocket next year” (new date as stated: next year, read as Dec 31, 2020). RevisedSource: NASA: NASA Administrator Statement on Return to Moon in Next Five Years (RELEASE 19-022) (Mar 26, 2019, statement, paragraph 1)
3. Sep 21, 2020: “The first mission ... is on track for 2021 without astronauts” (new date as stated: on track for 2021, read as Dec 31, 2021). RevisedSource: NASA: NASA Publishes Artemis Plan to Land First Woman, Next Man on Moon in 2024 (RELEASE 20-092) (Sep 21, 2020, paragraph 5)
4. Oct 22, 2021: “a series of integrated tests now sit between the mega-Moon rocket and targeted liftoff for deep space in February 2022.” (new date as stated: February 2022, read as Feb 28, 2022). Met lateSource: NASA: NASA Fully Stacked for Moon Mission, Readies for Artemis I (Oct 22, 2021, paragraph 2)
The counts use the original commitment. The latest date in the chain stands as: met late.
Outcome: SLS lifted off on the uncrewed Artemis I mission at 1:47 a.m. EST on 2022-11-16 from Launch Pad 39B. (Nov 16, 2022, 261 days after the latest deadline)
Outcome source: NASA: Liftoff! NASA’s Artemis I Mega Rocket Launches Orion to Moon (RELEASE 22-117) (Nov 16, 2022)
Checked against the source on Sep 26, 2026. Report a correction or send a response to this entry
First CLPS science on the lunar surface in 2020
Revised · worded as a commitment
Landing · Jim Bridenstine, NASA Administrator · NASA
“Next year, our initial science and technology research will be on the lunar surface”
Said May 31, 2019. Source: NASA: NASA Selects First Commercial Moon Landing Services for Artemis Program (May 31, 2019, paragraph 2 (Bridenstine quote))
Context: Said when NASA announced its first three CLPS lander task orders.
Deadline
“Next year”, read as Dec 31, 2020 (year precision)Worded as a commitment ("will")
Counts as met when
A CLPS lander carrying NASA science or technology payloads makes a successful soft landing on the Moon.
Later dated commitments for the same milestone
1. Sep 21, 2020, Jim Bridenstine (NASA Administrator): “We will return to the Moon robotically beginning next year” (new date as stated: beginning next year (2021), read as Dec 31, 2021). Met lateSource: NASA: NASA's Lunar Exploration Program Overview (Artemis Plan), Foreword by Jim Bridenstine (Sep 21, 2020, page 8, Foreword by Jim Bridenstine, paragraph 4)
The counts use the original commitment. The latest date in the chain stands as: met late.
Outcome: Intuitive Machines' IM-1 (Odysseus) touched down in the lunar South Pole region on 2024-02-22 with NASA instruments aboard; NASA describes IM-1 as the mission "which landed, tipped over, and operated on the lunar surface". (Feb 22, 2024, 783 days after the latest deadline)
Outcome source: NASA: Fourth Launch of NASA Instruments Planned for Near Moon's South Pole (Feb 26, 2025)
Checked against the source on Sep 26, 2026. Report a correction or send a response to this entry
CLPS deliveries to the Moon twice per year beginning in 2021
Missed · worded as a commitment
Launch cadence · NASA
“using commercial delivery services to send dozens of new science investigations and technology demonstrations to the Moon twice per year beginning in 2021”
Said Sep 21, 2020. Source: NASA: NASA Publishes Artemis Plan to Land First Woman, Next Man on Moon in 2024 (RELEASE 20-092) (Sep 21, 2020, paragraph 4)
Context: Artemis Plan release. The sentence begins "NASA already will be back on the Moon robotically".
Deadline
“twice per year beginning in 2021”, read as Dec 31, 2021 (year precision)Worded as a commitment ("will")
Counts as met when
At least two CLPS lander missions launch to the Moon in 2021, the first year of the stated cadence.
Outcome: No CLPS mission launched in 2021, 2022 or 2023. Intuitive Machines' IM-1, carrying NASA instruments, touched down on 2024-02-22. No NASA statement moving the 2021 start was found.
Outcome source: NASA: NASA Collects First Surface Science in Decades via Commercial Moon Mission (Mar 1, 2024)
Checked against the source on Sep 26, 2026. Report a correction or send a response to this entry
First Gateway element (power and propulsion element) launch in late 2022
Revised · worded as a target
Station or module · NASA
“NASA is targeting launch of the power and propulsion element on a commercial rocket in late 2022.”
Said May 23, 2019. Source: NASA: NASA Awards Artemis Contract for Lunar Gateway Power, Propulsion (RELEASE 19-042) (May 23, 2019, paragraph 3)
Context: Release on the Maxar power and propulsion element award. In 2020 NASA combined the element with the habitation and logistics outpost (HALO) for a single launch.
Deadline
“in late 2022”, read as Dec 31, 2022 (year precision)Worded as a target ("targeting", "plan", "expect", "no earlier than")
Counts as met when
The first Gateway element (PPE, later co-manifested with HALO) lifts off.
Later dated commitments for the same milestone
1. Sep 21, 2020: “NASA will integrate the first two components to launch – the power and propulsion element and the habitation and logistics outpost – in 2023.” (new date as stated: in 2023, read as Dec 31, 2023). RevisedSource: NASA: NASA Publishes Artemis Plan to Land First Woman, Next Man on Moon in 2024 (RELEASE 20-092) (Sep 21, 2020, Gateway paragraph)
2. Feb 9, 2021: “After integration on Earth, the PPE and HALO are targeted to launch together no earlier than May 2024” (new date as stated: no earlier than May 2024, read as May 31, 2024). RevisedSource: NASA: NASA Awards Contract to Launch Initial Elements for Lunar Outpost (RELEASE 21-015) (Feb 9, 2021, paragraph 2)
3. Jan 9, 2024: “NASA is reviewing the schedule for launching the first integrated elements of Gateway, previously planned for October 2025, to provide additional development time and better align that launch with the Artemis IV mission in 2028.” (new date as stated: none given (previously October 2025; under review to align with Artemis IV in 2028)). PendingSource: NASA: NASA Shares Progress Toward Early Artemis Moon Missions with Crew (RELEASE 24-006) (Jan 9, 2024, paragraph 1)
The counts use the original commitment. The latest date in the chain stands as: pending.
Outcome: No Gateway element had launched as of 2026-09-26. GAO’s 2026 assessment lists Gateway Initial Capability among the projects NASA announced plans to pause.
Outcome source: U.S. Government Accountability Office: NASA: Assessments of Major Projects (GAO-26-108556) (Jul 23, 2026)
Checked against the source on Sep 26, 2026. Report a correction or send a response to this entry
First crewed Orion/SLS mission (EM-2, later Artemis II) ready to launch by April 2023
Revised · worded as a commitment
Crewed milestone · NASA
“a commitment to be ready for a launch with astronauts no later than April 2023”
Said Sep 16, 2015. Source: NASA: NASA Completes Key Milestone for Orion Spacecraft in Support of Journey to Mars (RELEASE 15-185) (Sep 16, 2015, paragraph 2)
Context: Orion Key Decision Point C (KDP-C) commitment. The first crewed mission, then called Exploration Mission-2 (EM-2), was renamed Artemis II in 2019.
Deadline
“no later than April 2023”, read as Apr 30, 2023 (month precision)Worded as a commitment ("will")
Counts as met when
Artemis II (formerly EM-2) lifts off with its crew aboard.
Later dated commitments for the same milestone
1. Mar 26, 2019, Jim Bridenstine (NASA Administrator): “Stay on schedule for flying Exploration Mission-1 with Orion on the Space Launch System (SLS) rocket next year, and for sending the first crewed mission to the lunar vicinity by 2022.” (new date as stated: by 2022, read as Dec 31, 2022). RevisedSource: NASA: NASA Administrator Statement on Return to Moon in Next Five Years (RELEASE 19-022) (Mar 26, 2019, statement, paragraph 1)
2. Sep 21, 2020: “Artemis II will fly with crew in 2023.” (new date as stated: in 2023, read as Dec 31, 2023). RevisedSource: NASA: NASA Publishes Artemis Plan to Land First Woman, Next Man on Moon in 2024 (RELEASE 20-092) (Sep 21, 2020, paragraph 5)
3. Nov 9, 2021: “Nelson announced the Orion spacecraft development cost now is $9.3 billion from fiscal year 2012 through the first crewed flight test no later than May 2024.” (new date as stated: no later than May 2024, read as May 31, 2024). RevisedSource: NASA: NASA Outlines Challenges, Progress for Artemis Moon Missions (RELEASE 21-151) (Nov 9, 2021, paragraph 4)
4. Jan 9, 2024: “NASA will now target September 2025 for Artemis II, the first crewed Artemis mission around the Moon” (new date as stated: September 2025, read as Sep 30, 2025). RevisedSource: NASA: NASA Shares Progress Toward Early Artemis Moon Missions with Crew (RELEASE 24-006) (Jan 9, 2024, paragraph 1)
5. Dec 5, 2024: “The agency also announced it is now targeting April 2026 for Artemis II and mid-2027 for Artemis III.” (new date as stated: April 2026, read as Apr 30, 2026). MetSource: NASA: NASA Shares Orion Heat Shield Findings, Updates Artemis Moon Missions (RELEASE 24-145) (Dec 5, 2024)
The counts use the original commitment. The latest date in the chain stands as: met.
Outcome: SLS lifted off from Launch Pad 39B at Kennedy Space Center at 6:35 p.m. EDT on 2026-04-01 with four astronauts aboard Orion. (Apr 1, 2026, on or before the latest deadline)
Outcome source: NASA: Liftoff! NASA Launches Astronauts on Historic Artemis Moon Mission (RELEASE 26-026) (Apr 1, 2026)
Checked against the source on Sep 26, 2026. Report a correction or send a response to this entry
Starliner Crew Flight Test launch no earlier than July 21, 2023
Revised · worded as a target
Crewed milestone · NASA (NASA (with Boeing))
“NASA and Boeing’s Crew Flight Test (CFT), planned no earlier than July 21, 2023, is the first crewed flight of the Starliner system”
Said Apr 14, 2023. Source: NASA (Commercial Crew blog): NASA Updates Commercial Crew Planning Manifest Through 2024 (Apr 14, 2023, section: NASA's Boeing Crew Flight Test)
Context: NASA commercial crew planning manifest, published with partners Boeing and SpaceX.
Deadline
“no earlier than July 21, 2023” (no earlier than), read as Jul 21, 2023 (day precision)Worded as a target ("targeting", "plan", "expect", "no earlier than")
Counts as met when
Starliner lifts off on the Crew Flight Test with its crew aboard.
Later dated commitments for the same milestone
1. Jun 1, 2023: “managers shared they have made the decision to stand down on a July launch attempt for CFT to take time to address recent emerging issues” (new date as stated: no new date given). MetSource: NASA (Commercial Crew blog): NASA, Boeing Adjust Starliner Crew Flight Test Date (Jun 1, 2023)
The counts use the original commitment. The latest date in the chain stands as: met.
Outcome: The Crew Flight Test launched with Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams at 10:52 a.m. ET on 2024-06-05 (Boeing). Starliner returned uncrewed in September 2024 and the two astronauts returned on SpaceX Crew-9 in March 2025 (NASA, 2026-02-19). (Jun 5, 2024)
Outcome source: Boeing: Boeing Starliner Spacecraft Completes Successful Launch (Jun 5, 2024)
Checked against the source on Sep 26, 2026. Report a correction or send a response to this entry
Crew-7 launch in mid-August 2023
Met · worded as a target
Crewed milestone · NASA
“NASA and SpaceX are targeting mid-August for the launch of Crew-7”
Said Apr 5, 2023. Source: NASA (Commercial Crew Program blog): NASA, SpaceX Target Mid-August for Crew-7 Launch (Apr 5, 2023, paragraph 1)
Deadline
“mid-August”, read as Aug 31, 2023 (month precision)Worded as a target ("targeting", "plan", "expect", "no earlier than")
Counts as met when
Crew-7 lifts off with its crew aboard by 31 August 2023.
Outcome: Crew-7 launched at 3:27 a.m. EDT on 2023-08-26 from Launch Complex 39A and reached orbit. (Aug 26, 2023, on or before the deadline)
Outcome source: NASA: NASA’s SpaceX Crew-7 Launches to International Space Station (RELEASE 23-094) (Aug 26, 2023)
Checked against the source on Sep 26, 2026. Report a correction or send a response to this entry
Psyche launch in October 2023 (Discovery selection)
Met · worded as a target
Launch · NASA
“Psyche, also a robotic mission, is targeted to launch in October of 2023”
Said Jan 4, 2017. Source: NASA: NASA Selects Two Missions to Explore the Early Solar System (RELEASE 17-003) (Jan 4, 2017, paragraph 4)
Context: NASA release selecting Lucy and Psyche for the Discovery Program. The launch was later moved earlier to 2022, then back to October 2023.
Deadline
“in October of 2023”, read as Oct 31, 2023 (month precision)Worded as a target ("targeting", "plan", "expect", "no earlier than")
Counts as met when
Psyche lifts off.
Later dated commitments for the same milestone
1. May 24, 2017: “Psyche, NASA's mission to a unique metal asteroid, has moved up one year, with launch in the summer of 2022” (new date as stated: in the summer of 2022, read as Sep 30, 2022). Met lateSource: NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory: NASA Moves Up Launch of Psyche Mission to a Metal Asteroid (2017-149) (May 24, 2017, paragraph 1)
2. Feb 28, 2020: “The Psyche mission currently is targeted to launch in July 2022” (new date as stated: July 2022, read as Jul 31, 2022). RevisedSource: NASA: NASA Awards Launch Services Contract for the Psyche Mission (C20-006) (Feb 28, 2020, paragraph 1)
3. Feb 2, 2021: “the final phase of operations prior to its scheduled launch in August 2022” (new date as stated: August 2022, read as Aug 31, 2022). RevisedSource: NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory (on nasa.gov): NASA’s Psyche Mission Moves Forward, Passing Key Milestone (Feb 2, 2021, paragraph 1)
4. Jun 24, 2022: “NASA announced Friday the Psyche asteroid mission, the agency’s first mission designed to study a metal-rich asteroid, will not make its planned 2022 launch attempt.” (new date as stated: none given). RevisedSource: NASA: NASA Announces Launch Delay for Psyche Asteroid Mission (RELEASE 22-066) (Jun 24, 2022, paragraph 1)
5. Oct 28, 2022: “NASA announced Friday the agency decided its Psyche mission will go forward, targeting a launch period opening on Oct. 10, 2023.” (new date as stated: a launch period opening on Oct. 10, 2023, read as Oct 31, 2023). MetSource: NASA: NASA Continues Psyche Asteroid Mission (Oct 28, 2022, paragraph 1)
The counts use the original commitment. The latest date in the chain stands as: met.
Outcome: Psyche launched on a Falcon Heavy from Kennedy Space Center on 2023-10-13. (Oct 13, 2023, on or before the deadline)
Outcome source: NASA: Launching to a Metal-Rich Asteroid (Oct 16, 2023)
Checked against the source on Sep 26, 2026. Report a correction or send a response to this entry
Crew-8 launch no earlier than February 2024
Revised · worded as a target
Crewed milestone · NASA
“NASA’s SpaceX Crew-8: NET February 2024”
Said Apr 14, 2023. Source: NASA (Commercial Crew Program blog): NASA Updates Commercial Crew Planning Manifest Through 2024 (Apr 14, 2023, Target Launch Manifest list)
Context: NASA commercial crew planning manifest.
Deadline
“NET February 2024” (no earlier than), read as Feb 29, 2024 (month precision)Worded as a target ("targeting", "plan", "expect", "no earlier than")
Counts as met when
Crew-8 lifts off with its crew aboard by 29 February 2024.
Later dated commitments for the same milestone
1. Oct 12, 2023: “NASA’s SpaceX Crew-8 mission to the orbiting laboratory is targeted to launch no earlier than mid-February.” (new date as stated: no earlier than mid-February, read as Feb 29, 2024). RevisedSource: NASA (Space Station blog): NASA Updates Commercial Crew Planning Manifest (Oct 12, 2023, Crew-8 section)
2. Feb 15, 2024: “NASA and SpaceX teams adjusted the launch date for the Crew-8 mission to no earlier than 12:04 a.m. EST Friday, March 1.” (new date as stated: no earlier than 12:04 a.m. EST Friday, March 1, read as Mar 1, 2024). Met lateSource: NASA (Commercial Crew Program blog): NASA, SpaceX Target March 1 for Crew-8 Launch to Space Station (Feb 15, 2024, paragraph 1)
3. Mar 2, 2024: “NASA and SpaceX now are targeting 10:53 p.m. EST Sunday, March 3” (new date as stated: 10:53 p.m. EST Sunday, March 3, read as Mar 3, 2024). MetSource: NASA (Space Station blog): NASA, SpaceX Target Crew-8 Launch for Sunday, March 3 on Weather Concerns (Mar 2, 2024, paragraph 1)
The counts use the original commitment. The latest date in the chain stands as: met.
Outcome: Crew-8 launched at 10:53 p.m. EST on 2024-03-03 (03:53 UTC on 2024-03-04) from Launch Complex 39A and reached orbit. (Mar 3, 2024, on or before the latest deadline)
Outcome source: NASA: NASA’s SpaceX Crew-8 Launches to International Space Station (RELEASE 24-035) (Mar 3, 2024)
Checked against the source on Sep 26, 2026. Report a correction or send a response to this entry
Europa Clipper launch in October 2024
Met · worded as a commitment
Launch · NASA
“The Europa Clipper mission will launch in October 2024 on a Falcon Heavy rocket”
Said Jul 23, 2021. Source: NASA: NASA Awards Launch Services Contract for Europa Clipper Mission (Jul 23, 2021, paragraph 2)
Deadline
“October 2024”, read as Oct 31, 2024 (month precision)Worded as a commitment ("will")
Counts as met when
Europa Clipper lifts off.
Outcome: Europa Clipper launched on a Falcon Heavy from Launch Complex 39A at 12:06 p.m. EDT on 2024-10-14. (Oct 14, 2024, on or before the deadline)
Outcome source: NASA: Liftoff! NASA's Europa Clipper Sails Toward Ocean Moon of Jupiter (Oct 14, 2024)
Checked against the source on Sep 26, 2026. Report a correction or send a response to this entry
VIPER rover delivered to the lunar South Pole in November 2024
Withdrawn · worded as a target
Landing · NASA
“NASA has requested the Astrobotic and VIPER mission teams to adjust VIPER’s delivery to the Moon’s South Pole to November 2024.”
Said Jul 18, 2022. Source: NASA: NASA Replans CLPS Delivery of VIPER to 2024 to Reduce Risk (Jul 18, 2022, paragraph 1)
Context: VIPER was to land on Astrobotic's Griffin lander under CLPS; it had been scheduled for November 2023.
Deadline
“November 2024”, read as Nov 30, 2024 (month precision)Worded as a target ("targeting", "plan", "expect", "no earlier than")
Counts as met when
Griffin makes a successful soft landing delivering VIPER at the lunar South Pole.
Outcome: On 2024-07-17 NASA announced its intent to discontinue VIPER development, citing cost increases, launch delays and the risk of further cost growth. On 2025-09-19 NASA awarded Blue Origin a CLPS task order with an option to deliver VIPER to the lunar South Pole in late 2027 on a second Blue Moon MK1 lander (RELEASE 25-064); no delivery took place in November 2024.
Outcome source: NASA: NASA Ends VIPER Project, Continues Moon Exploration (Jul 17, 2024)
Checked against the source on Sep 26, 2026. Report a correction or send a response to this entry
Crewed landing at the Moon’s South Pole by 2024
Revised · worded as a commitment
Landing · Jim Bridenstine, NASA Administrator · NASA
“We are tasked with landing on the Moon’s South Pole by 2024.”
Said Mar 26, 2019. Source: NASA: NASA Administrator Statement on Return to Moon in Next Five Years (RELEASE 19-022) (Mar 26, 2019, statement, paragraph 1)
Context: Statement after Vice President Mike Pence’s announcement at the fifth National Space Council meeting; the landing later became the Artemis III mission.
Deadline
“by 2024”, read as Dec 31, 2024 (year precision)Worded as a commitment ("will")
Counts as met when
Astronauts make a successful soft landing on the Moon in the South Pole region.
Later dated commitments for the same milestone
1. Sep 21, 2020: “In 2024, Artemis III will be humanity’s return to the surface of the Moon” (new date as stated: In 2024, read as Dec 31, 2024). RevisedSource: NASA: NASA Publishes Artemis Plan to Land First Woman, Next Man on Moon in 2024 (RELEASE 20-092) (Sep 21, 2020, paragraph 3)
2. Nov 9, 2021: “the first human landing under Artemis is likely no earlier than 2025” (new date as stated: likely no earlier than 2025 (NASA Administrator Bill Nelson), read as Dec 31, 2025). RevisedSource: NASA: NASA Outlines Challenges, Progress for Artemis Moon Missions (Nov 9, 2021)
3. Jan 9, 2024: “NASA will now target September 2025 for Artemis II ... and September 2026 for Artemis III, which is planned to land the first astronauts near the lunar South Pole.” (new date as stated: September 2026, read as Sep 30, 2026). RevisedSource: NASA: NASA Shares Progress Toward Early Artemis Moon Missions with Crew (RELEASE 24-006) (Jan 9, 2024, paragraph 1)
4. Dec 5, 2024: “The agency also announced it is now targeting ... mid-2027 for Artemis III.” (new date as stated: mid-2027, read as Sep 30, 2027). RevisedSource: NASA: NASA Shares Orion Heat Shield Findings, Updates Artemis Moon Missions (RELEASE 24-145) (Dec 5, 2024, paragraph 1)
5. Feb 27, 2026: “the Artemis III mission, now in 2027, will be designed to test out systems and operational capabilities in low Earth orbit to prepare for an Artemis IV landing in 2028” (new date as stated: an Artemis IV landing in 2028, read as Dec 31, 2028). PendingSource: NASA: NASA Adds Mission to Artemis Lunar Program, Updates Architecture (RELEASE 26-022) (Feb 27, 2026)
The counts use the original commitment. The latest date in the chain stands as: pending.
Outcome: No crewed landing on the Moon's South Pole took place by the end of 2024. NASA's 2026-02-27 update moved Artemis III to 2027 as a low Earth orbit test mission and planned the first landing for Artemis IV in 2028.
Outcome source: NASA: NASA Adds Mission to Artemis Lunar Program, Updates Architecture (RELEASE 26-022) (Feb 27, 2026)
Checked against the source on Sep 26, 2026. Report a correction or send a response to this entry
Uncrewed Starliner-1 cargo flight no earlier than April 2026
Revised · worded as a target
Launch · NASA (NASA (with Boeing))
“NASA and Boeing are targeting no earlier than April 2026 to fly the uncrewed Starliner-1 pending completion of rigorous test, certification, and mission readiness activities.”
Said Nov 24, 2025. Source: NASA (Commercial Crew blog): NASA, Boeing Modify Commercial Crew Contract (Nov 24, 2025, paragraph 2)
Context: Announced with a contract modification that set the firm Starliner order at four missions.
Deadline
“no earlier than April 2026” (no earlier than), read as Apr 30, 2026 (month precision)Worded as a target ("targeting", "plan", "expect", "no earlier than")
Counts as met when
Starliner-1 lifts off.
Later dated commitments for the same milestone
1. Apr 22, 2026 (Boeing (SEC Form 10-Q)): “We expect to launch an uncrewed mission no earlier than June 2026 and a crewed mission later in 2026.” (new date as stated: no earlier than June 2026, read as Jun 30, 2026). MissedSource: The Boeing Company (SEC Form 10-Q): Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2026 (Apr 22, 2026, Note 10 (Liabilities, Commitments and Contingencies), Commercial Crew paragraph, page 17)
2. Jul 28, 2026 (Boeing (SEC Form 10-Q)): “Based on recent discussions with NASA, we now expect to complete an uncrewed mission no earlier than the fourth quarter of 2026.” (new date as stated: no earlier than the fourth quarter of 2026, read as Dec 31, 2026). PendingSource: The Boeing Company (SEC Form 10-Q): Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2026 (Jul 28, 2026, Note 10 (Liabilities, Commitments and Contingencies), Commercial Crew paragraph, page 18)
The counts use the original commitment. The latest date in the chain stands as: pending.
Outcome: Starliner-1 had not launched by 2026-09-26. On 2026-05-01 NASA said its launch opportunities "remain under review as teams continue working through technical issues discovered during the Crew Flight Test in 2024"; Boeing's 10-Q filed 2026-07-28 says it now expects to complete an uncrewed mission no earlier than the fourth quarter of 2026.
Outcome source: NASA (Commercial Crew blog): NASA, Partners Update International Space Station 2026 Flight Plan (May 1, 2026)
Checked against the source on Sep 26, 2026. Report a correction or send a response to this entry
Dragonfly launch in 2026
Revised · worded as a commitment
Launch · NASA
“Dragonfly will launch in 2026 and arrive in 2034.”
Said Jun 27, 2019. Source: NASA: NASA’s Dragonfly Will Fly Around Titan Looking for Origins, Signs of Life (RELEASE 19-052) (Jun 27, 2019, paragraph 2)
Context: NASA release selecting Dragonfly as the fourth New Frontiers mission.
Deadline
“in 2026”, read as Dec 31, 2026 (year precision)Worded as a commitment ("will")
Counts as met when
Dragonfly lifts off.
Later dated commitments for the same milestone
1. Sep 25, 2020: “NASA has requested the Dragonfly team pursue their alternative launch readiness date in 2027.” (new date as stated: in 2027, read as Dec 31, 2027). RevisedSource: NASA: Dragonfly Launch Moved to 2027 (Sep 25, 2020, paragraph 1 (below the undated UPDATE note))
2. Apr 16, 2024: “Dragonfly is confirmed with a total lifecycle cost of $3.35 billion and a launch date of July 2028.” (new date as stated: July 2028, read as Jul 31, 2028). PendingSource: NASA Science: NASA’s Dragonfly Rotorcraft Mission to Saturn’s Moon Titan Confirmed (Apr 16, 2024, paragraph 4)
3. Nov 25, 2024: “The Dragonfly mission currently has a targeted launch period from July 5, 2028, to July 25, 2028” (new date as stated: a targeted launch period from July 5, 2028, to July 25, 2028, read as Jul 25, 2028). PendingSource: NASA: NASA Awards Launch Services Contract for Dragonfly Mission (C24-042) (Nov 25, 2024, paragraph 2)
The counts use the original commitment. The latest date in the chain stands as: pending.
Outcome: Not launched as of 2026-09-26. A NASA blog post of 2026-04-23 says Dragonfly is scheduled to launch no earlier than 2028.
Outcome source: NASA Science (Dragonfly blog): NASA’s Dragonfly Rotorcraft Gets Decked Out, Tested (Apr 23, 2026)
Checked against the source on Sep 26, 2026. Report a correction or send a response to this entry
Roman Space Telescope launch no later than May 2027 (COVID-19 replan)
Met · worded as a commitment
Launch · NASA
“Roman is now slated to launch no later than May 2027.”
Said Oct 14, 2021. Source: NASA: NASA Confirms Roman Mission’s Flight Design in Milestone Review (Oct 14, 2021, Editor’s Note, 14 Oct. 2021)
Context: Dated editor’s note (14 Oct. 2021) on a NASA article of 2021-09-29; the replan committed a launch date and a $4.3 billion lifecycle cost. No earlier dated NASA launch date was found (the March 2020 approval article gives none).
Deadline
“no later than May 2027”, read as May 31, 2027 (month precision)Worded as a commitment ("will")
Counts as met when
The Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope lifts off.
Later dated commitments for the same milestone
1. Jul 19, 2022: “The telescope’s mission currently is targeted to launch in October 2026, as specified in the contract” (new date as stated: October 2026, read as Oct 31, 2026). MetSource: NASA: NASA Awards Launch Services Contract for Roman Space Telescope (Jul 19, 2022, paragraph 2)
The counts use the original commitment. The latest date in the chain stands as: met.
Outcome: Roman launched on a Falcon Heavy from Launch Complex 39A at 7:26 a.m. EDT on 2026-08-30; NASA said the launch date had been moved earlier to match the telescope's early completion. (Aug 30, 2026, on or before the deadline)
Outcome source: NASA: NASA's Dark Universe-Seeking Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope Launches (Aug 30, 2026)
Checked against the source on Sep 26, 2026. Report a correction or send a response to this entry

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NASA: public spaceflight commitments

Entries, soonest deadline first

First SLS flight (Exploration Mission-1, later Artemis I) no later than November 2018

First CLPS science on the lunar surface in 2020

CLPS deliveries to the Moon twice per year beginning in 2021

First Gateway element (power and propulsion element) launch in late 2022

First crewed Orion/SLS mission (EM-2, later Artemis II) ready to launch by April 2023

Starliner Crew Flight Test launch no earlier than July 21, 2023

Crew-7 launch in mid-August 2023

Psyche launch in October 2023 (Discovery selection)

Crew-8 launch no earlier than February 2024

Europa Clipper launch in October 2024

VIPER rover delivered to the lunar South Pole in November 2024

Crewed landing at the Moon’s South Pole by 2024

Uncrewed Starliner-1 cargo flight no earlier than April 2026

Dragonfly launch in 2026

Roman Space Telescope launch no later than May 2027 (COVID-19 replan)

Corrections, responses and submissions

NASA: public spaceflight commitments

Entries, soonest deadline first

First SLS flight (Exploration Mission-1, later Artemis I) no later than November 2018

First CLPS science on the lunar surface in 2020

CLPS deliveries to the Moon twice per year beginning in 2021

First Gateway element (power and propulsion element) launch in late 2022

First crewed Orion/SLS mission (EM-2, later Artemis II) ready to launch by April 2023

Starliner Crew Flight Test launch no earlier than July 21, 2023

Crew-7 launch in mid-August 2023

Psyche launch in October 2023 (Discovery selection)

Crew-8 launch no earlier than February 2024

Europa Clipper launch in October 2024

VIPER rover delivered to the lunar South Pole in November 2024

Crewed landing at the Moon’s South Pole by 2024

Uncrewed Starliner-1 cargo flight no earlier than April 2026

Dragonfly launch in 2026

Roman Space Telescope launch no later than May 2027 (COVID-19 replan)

Corrections, responses and submissions

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