NASA has revealed a new problem Artemis II Rocket, launch further delayed
Just a day after NASA set a March 6 target date for its upcoming Moon mission, the agency’s head announced it would withdraw the rocket from the pad entirely.
Just a day after NASA announced that it is on track to launch its upcoming Moon mission on March 6, Artemis II, the agency revealed a new problem with the mission’s rocket that “almost certainly” thwarted that plan.
one in blog post saturdayNASA said engineers have detected a blockage in the flow of helium in the upper stage of the Space Launch System (SLS) rocket. NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman confirmed the problem social media post And the rocket will be removed from the launch pad and returned to the Vehicle Assembly Building for repair work.
“We will begin preparations for the rollback and will no longer be considering the March launch window,” Isaacman wrote.
On supporting science journalism
If you enjoyed this article, consider supporting our award-winning journalism Subscribing By purchasing a subscription, you are helping ensure a future of impactful stories about the discoveries and ideas shaping our world today.
“Helium flow is essential for launch,” NASA said in the post, “and engineers are deciding what to do next.” The mission’s predecessor, Artemis I, also suffered from a helium problem, although it is not clear why. Artemis IIThe issue remains the same, Isaacman said.
Artemis II It has already been delayed several times, most recently due to its initial failed “wet dress rehearsal”. This major test involves loading the rocket with fuel, preparing the capsule in which it will be placed Artemis II Crew for launch, and simulation of launch countdown for the duration of the mission. The first attempt was plagued with hydrogen fuel leaks and other problems. But the second attempt, which took place just a few days earlier, was successful – which is why NASA was confident of a March launch date just hours before this new problem arose.
When it finally launches, Artemis II It will fly four astronauts—NASA’s Christina Koch, Reed Wiseman and Victor Glover, and Canadian astronaut Jeremy Hansen—on a ten-day trip around the moon and back. Together, they will observe the moon’s elusive far side and conduct critical tests that will help lay the groundwork for Artemis III-NASA’s planned mission, by 2028, is to return humans to the surface of the Moon for the first time in more than half a century.
It’s time to stand up for science
If you enjoyed this article, I would like to ask for your support. scientific American He has served as an advocate for science and industry for 180 years, and right now may be the most important moment in that two-century history.
i have been one scientific American I’ve been a member since I was 12, and it’s helped shape the way I see the world. Science Always educates and delights me, and inspires a sense of awe for our vast, beautiful universe. I hope it does the same for you.
if you agree scientific AmericanYou help ensure that our coverage focuses on meaningful research and discovery; We have the resources to report on decisions that put laboratories across America at risk; And that we support both emerging and working scientists at a time when the value of science is too often recognised.
In return, you get the news you need, Captivating podcasts, great infographics, Don’t miss the newsletter, be sure to watch the video, Challenging games, and the best writing and reporting from the world of science. you can even Gift a membership to someone.
There has never been a more important time for us to stand up and show why science matters. I hope you will support us in that mission.
