The U.S. Space and Rocket Center in Huntsville is seeing a surge in business as the Artemis II launch approaches.
The upcoming launch of Artemis II is driving up sales at the U.S. Space and Rocket Center.
Artemis merchandise, including shirts, patches and water bottles, is selling quickly at the center's store.
"People are extremely interested in Artemis II, not only have we seen an uptick in visitors and sales in the merchandise department, but I would also say the energy of everybody is just dialed up to 11," said Chris Maynard, senior director of regional merchandise at the U.S. Space and Rocket Center.
Officials say the excitement goes beyond just buying merchandise. This will be the first time humans travel back to deep space since Apollo 17, and that historic moment is driving demand.
"People are looking for all things Artemis and that includes all things SLS, which is a big deal because of course SLS was developed in our backyard, which is the space launch system that NASA is going to use to get us back to the moon," Maynard said.
Store managers say they're struggling to keep items in stock. A supervisor reported that nearly everything bought on the website was Artemis-related.
Officials expect the momentum to continue through this launch and future missions to the moon and beyond. People can shop in person or online, and there will be a pop-up shop at a launch watch party.
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