How Trump’s Jesus-like image and feud with the Pope are sparking backlash

Donald Trump, the U.S. president, has encountered increasing criticism following the posting of an AI-generated image on Truth Social. The visual, which has since been removed, portrayed him as a Christ-like figure healing a patient in a hospital setting. This image emerged shortly after Trump issued a detailed critique of Pope Leo XIV, sparking a notable controversy. BBC Science Editor Rebecca Morelle recently engaged with the Artemis II crew ahead of their planned splashdown, shedding light on the mission’s significance and the astronauts’ experiences.

Astronauts break lunar distance record

The Artemis II crew, aboard the Orion spacecraft, recently surpassed a historic milestone by traveling farther from Earth than any humans before. After a nine-day journey, they set a new record of 248,655 miles (400,171km), surpassing the Apollo 13 achievement from 1970. The mission, which spans ten days, includes a three-day segment around the Moon’s far side. While no landing is planned this time, NASA aims to establish the groundwork for a potential lunar touchdown by 2028.

“It is so great to hear from Earth again,” said astronaut Christina Koch upon re-establishing contact with ground control.

Personal stories and public focus

Astronaut Reid Wiseman, the mission commander, faced a personal loss in 2020 when his wife passed away from cancer at 46. Despite this, the crew remains focused on their tasks, including simulating spacecraft maneuvers and conducting experiments during their time in orbit. The mission also drew attention as a commercial flight witnessed the launch of NASA’s first crewed Moon mission in half a century, with observers standing just three miles away.

Trump’s image as a Christ-like healer contrasts with his public dispute over the Pope, where he accused the leader of the Catholic Church of misrepresenting his policies. Some of his strongest supporters, however, defended his portrayal, emphasizing his role as a leader and visionary. The BBC’s Sarah Smith explored these tensions, highlighting how the president’s rhetoric and visuals are shaping perceptions in the public eye.

Meanwhile, the Artemis II crew shared video messages for their families, reflecting on the challenges and triumphs of their lunar voyage. Their return marks a significant step in NASA’s plan to re-establish human presence on the Moon, though the focus remains on future missions rather than this current orbital journey.