Artemis I, including the SLS booster rocket and Orion spacecraft, is expected to lift off Wednesday, November 16. [Courtesy: NASA]
Key Takeaways:
The Artemis I launch has been delayed from November 14 to November 16 due to Hurricane Nicole, marking multiple postponements for the program.
NASA proceeded with rolling out the SLS rocket and Orion spacecraft to the launch pad, stating confidence in its ability to withstand the hurricane's anticipated winds.
Despite NASA's assurance, a local meteorologist reported that wind gusts at Launch Pad 39B reached 100 mph, exceeding the rocket's stated design limit of 85 mph.
As of the article's publication, NASA had not yet commented on the actual wind speeds experienced at the pad or provided an update on the rocket's condition.
You’ve got to hand it to the folks at NASA. They know how to take challenges in stride.
The Artemis program has faced numerous delays after NASA waived off launch attempts on August 29 and September 3 because of mechanical issues, and again in late September, owing to weather concerns stemming from Hurricane Ian.
CREATE A FREE ACCOUNT
Sign up to keep reading
Create a free account to continue. Already a member? Sign in below.
Arturo has a strong background in aviation and communications. As a graduate of Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, he has held key training and safety management roles at Airbus and the Experimental Aircraft Association. His training experience includes Aviation English program development for pilots, air traffic controllers, and flight attendants while also overseeing ground school training for a local flight academy. Outside his aviation work, Arturo is a certified communications facilitator providing business communication training to Fortune 500 companies, government agencies, and high-profile thought leaders in diverse industries.