In an interview with Nick Stewart of Iowa's News Now (CBS 2), Assistant Professor Casey DeRoo commented on the planned launch of this generation's moon shot, known as Artemis. 

This launch, Artemis I will be un-crewed but will test all the systems setting the stage for astronauts to ride on Artemis II.

This project started a decade ago. Each launch will an estimated $4.1 billion. DeRoo says it is a financial benefit that can pay for itself based on previous investments.

"The basic functions of our day-to-day life are directly born out of technologies that were developed out of our nation’s investment into space exploration," DeRoo said.