Why was the Artemis II mission delayed?

The Artemis II mission was delayed until March due to technical issues, including hydrogen leaks and a valve problem, discovered during a critical test of the Space Launch System rocket.

When will the Artemis II mission launch?

The Artemis II mission is now scheduled to launch in March, a delay from its original target of next week.

What is the significance of the Artemis II mission?

Artemis II is significant as it will be the first crewed mission to travel around the moon in over 50 years, with astronauts Christina Koch and Victor Glover making historic firsts.

Home / Science / Moon Mission Delayed: Hydrogen Leak Halts Artemis II Launch

Moon Mission Delayed: Hydrogen Leak Halts Artemis II Launch

3 Feb

•

Summary

Artemis II moon mission launch is delayed until March due to rocket issues.
Hydrogen leaks and valve problems were detected during a critical test.
This mission will mark the first crewed journey around the moon in 50 years.

Moon Mission Delayed: Hydrogen Leak Halts Artemis II Launch

NASA has announced a delay for its Artemis II mission, pushing the historic journey around the moon to March. The postponement stems from critical issues identified during a recent "wet dress rehearsal" test of the Space Launch System (SLS) rocket.

Engineers detected a hydrogen leak within the powerful 98-meter-tall rocket. Additionally, a valve associated with the Orion capsule, which will house the four-person crew, experienced a problem. These technical setbacks have necessitated a full data review before the mission can proceed.

The Artemis II mission is highly anticipated as it represents the first time humans will travel to the vicinity of the moon since 1972. Astronauts Christina Koch and Victor Glover will achieve significant milestones, becoming the first woman and first person of color, respectively, to venture beyond low Earth orbit.