NASA Curates Inspiring Wake-Up Playlist for Artemis II Astronauts on Spotify
The Artemis II crew is greeted each day in space with music selected by mission control in Houston. This unique tradition gives astronauts a sense of connection to home as they navigate their historic 10-day mission.
Wake-Up Songs for Artemis II Astronauts
For the Artemis II mission, the wake-up songs played include:
- Day 1: “Sleepyhead” by Young & Sick (cover of a Passion Pit song)
- Day 2: “Green Light” by John Legend featuring André 3000
- Day 3: “In a Daydream” by Freddy Jones Band
- Day 4: “Pink Pony Club” by Chappell Roan
- Day 5: “Under Pressure” by Queen and David Bowie
- Day 7: “Tokyo Drifting” by Glass Animals featuring Denzel Curry
The Tradition Behind Musical Wake-Up Calls
This tradition of waking astronauts with music dates back to the Apollo era in 1965. Brian Odom, NASA’s chief historian, explained that these musical interludes help crew members refocus and feel connected to their loved ones and culture.
Odom noted, “In a moment when they feel further away than they’ve ever felt, they can be connected to family, they can be connected to culture.” Music serves as a powerful reminder of home for astronauts in space.
Nasa’s Spotify Playlist
Recently, NASA unveiled an official Spotify playlist featuring the “Artemis II Wake-Up Songs.” The tracks were carefully chosen by the crew along with their families to enrich their space experience. The announcement has sparked excitement among the featured artists.
Reactions from Artists
Several artists expressed their enthusiasm upon learning their music would accompany astronauts during their journey:
- Young & Sick: “To be a tiny speck on this wild mission they’re on is beyond crazy.”
- Glass Animals: Shared on Instagram, expressing admiration and connection to the crew.
- Freddy Jones Band: Responded with an ecstatic “Yessss!”
- TobyMac: Called it “an honor” for his song “Good Morning” to be chosen, remembering his collaborator Mandisa, who passed away in 2024.
The use of music in the Artemis II mission exemplifies NASA’s commitment to enhancing the emotional well-being of astronauts as they embark on their remarkable journey beyond Earth.
