NASA has unveiled a new Artemis-themed paint scheme on one of its T-38 astronaut training jets, replacing the long-familiar blue-stripe appearance with black and white panels, red and blue stripes, Artemis branding and Moon imagery. The redesign is intended to make the aircraft’s role in preparing astronauts for lunar missions more visible, even though the jet itself does not fly in space.

The Northrop T-38 Talon has supported NASA since 1962 and is used to build astronauts’ skills in demanding flight environments; Johnson Space Center operates 14 active jets, with only tail number N924NA currently carrying the new design. NASA chose it simply because it was due for repainting, but plans a second Artemis-liveried T-38. Artemis III is targeted for no earlier than June 2027, while a Moon landing could follow with Artemis IV as early as 2028.