04/01/2026
God Speed, Artemis II! from The U.S. Cement Industry
Rockets like Artemis II must reach a speed of about 25,000 miles per hour to leave Earth and escape its gravity. But no rocket can travel even its first mile upward without a launch pad constructed with concrete.
Just as concrete—made with cement—is critical for national security to include the construction of military bases, command posts, aircraft shelters, and naval ports, it is essential for U.S. space missions. Concrete is the optimal material for rocket launch pads as it is high-strength, heat-resistant, and flame-retardant.
Concrete protects the launch infrastructure from extreme heat and high-velocity exhaust gases during lift-off. It also prevents the steel launch structure from warping or breaking.
It’s estimated it takes about 400,000 professionals to get a few astronauts to the moon. That workforce includes NASA employees, contractors, engineers, and scientists. We’re proud to acknowledge that cement and concrete manufacturers have a role in space travel, too.
From the concrete pavement throughout your neighborhood to the reliable launch pad enabling Artemis II to shoot for the moon…Cement is an absolutely vital material in the fabric of America.
Learn more: https://www.cement.org/build-america/
