Progress Before Splashdown

As the Artemis II mission approaches its splashdown, it feels like the perfect moment to share some exciting updates on the preproduction materials that support this incredible journey. Before Integrity’s splashdown, I want to give you a clear look at the finalized version of the preproduction copy rulebook and reference book. Alongside this, I’ll showcase one of the three functional insert boxes designed to hold the miniatures, which are an essential part of the mission’s tactile experience.

This update is for anyone interested in the behind-the-scenes work that goes into preparing for such a significant event. Whether you are a space enthusiast, a fan of detailed production design, or simply curious about how these elements come together, this post will offer a practical glimpse into the progress made so far.

Finalizing the Preproduction Copy Rulebook

The rulebook is the backbone of any board game introducing new game mechanics. The finalized version of the preproduction copy rulebook reflects months of careful revisions, feedback, and testing.

Key improvements include:

• Clearer step by step instructions that reduce confusion.

• Consistent use of terminology with a structured table of content.

• Background info to better understand game mechanic choices.

• Link to the Board Game Wizard app to get rules assistance.

  
  

The goal was to create a document that anyone can pick up and understand without prior deep knowledge, while keeping you connected with the science and history behind the theme.

View on Rulebook | AstroNavigators

The Reference Book’s Role in Supporting the rulebook

Alongside the rulebook, the reference book acts as a detailed companion. It contains info about the asymmetric rules of components such as cards, that are not necessarily always part of the game.

Some highlights of the reference book include:

• Character abilities

• Hidden Agendas

• Rocket abilities

• Overview of all the observation cards

• Iconography

  
  

Together, the rulebook and reference book form a comprehensive package that supports veterans and first time players.

Also view on Rulebook | AstroNavigators

Showcasing the Functional Insert Boxes for Miniatures

One of the most tangible parts of this preproduction phase is the creation of the insert boxes designed to hold miniatures. These miniatures represent astronomers, instruments, and astronauts. The insert boxes are crafted to keep these pieces safe, organized, and ready for use during play sessions.

Insert box designed to securely hold miniatures for Astronomers, included in each set you ordered. (RPG Guild)

This particular insert box is one of three, each tailored to fit specific sets of miniatures. The design focuses on:

• Durability to protect delicate pieces during transport. Especially when painted.

• Ease of access so users can quickly retrieve miniatures.

• Compactness and same size for each set.

  
  

The attention to detail in these boxes reflects the care taken throughout the entire preproduction process.

Space Program Set

We also worked on a new set that was waiting to come. Test with filament and resin printing showed us that the rocket showed better results with filament printing, while the Command Service Module (CSM) and Lunar Module (LM) showed the best results in resin printing. Pictures by RPG Guild.

For the CSM and LM miniatures, we needed to rethink the applied player colours, since printing in 7 colours is not efficient. I came up with a square ring for both the CSM as the LM descent stage legs. this way, we just need 4 module sets per game instead of 7.

Blender images of vehicle models by Jeff McDowell (Armillary Games)

The new set might be available during Spiel, or scheduled for the end of the year. Included in the set:

• 8 base rockets (see reference book rocket cards)

• promo rocket SLS

• 4 CSM and LM miniatures

• 14 squared bases in 7 colours

  
  

In the meantime we are also thinking about the planets expansion and the planet minis to fit the same miniature storage system.

What Comes Next

With the rulebook and reference book finalized and the insert boxes ready, the focus now shifts to prepress printing for the board game production in China. Production of the miniatures and their boxes have already begun this week.

Earthset picture taken by the crew on 7 April 2026 (NASA)

For those following the Artemis II mission, this is a chance to witness exciting times. I want to leave you an earthset picture taken by the crew on 7 April 2026. Soon the service module will decouple from the command module and then we hope Christina, Victor, Jeremy and Reid land safely on our blue marble home.

Ad Astra!