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Artemis 2: Crewed Moon Flyby Back on Track
20 Mar
Summary
- Nasa's SLS rocket and Orion spacecraft are returning to the launch pad.
- Repairs for a helium flow issue were completed, enabling a new launch window.
- The mission aims for the first crewed lunar flyby in over 50 years.
Nasa has moved its towering SLS rocket and Orion spacecraft back to the launch pad at the Kennedy Space Center in Florida. This maneuver follows the completion of necessary repairs after an issue with helium flow was detected. The mission, Artemis 2, is targeting an April 1 launch window, with subsequent opportunities available. This flight aims to achieve the first crewed flyby of the moon in more than 50 years.
The Artemis 2 mission experienced several delays, including a previous rollback to the Vehicle Assembly Building to address the helium flow problem. Technical issues, such as a liquid hydrogen leak, had also previously impacted launch preparations. Despite these setbacks, Nasa is now hopeful for an early April liftoff.
If tests are satisfactory, the mission will carry three US astronauts and one Canadian astronaut on a journey expected to last approximately 10 days. This flyby represents a significant step towards the goal of returning humans to the lunar surface. The Artemis 2 astronaut crew recently entered quarantine in Houston in preparation for the upcoming launch.
