NASA rolls its Space Launch System (SLS) rocket and Orion capsule between the vehicle assembly building (VAB) and pad at Kennedy Space Center in Florida using the crawler-transporter 2, the heaviest self-powered land vehicle on Earth. [Credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett]
Key Takeaways:
NASA aims to launch the crewed Artemis II mission around the moon in April, a 10-day test flight to prepare for future lunar landing attempts.
Officials acknowledge the mission carries significant risk to the four crewmembers, with an estimated failure probability closer to 1 in 2 due to the novelty of the flight.
The crew raised concerns, particularly regarding the Orion capsule's heat shield, which showed higher-than-expected erosion on Artemis I, leading NASA to modify its reentry profile for Artemis II.
NASA will proceed with the launch without a third wet dress rehearsal, having completed two rehearsals despite earlier issues, to conserve the vehicle's life and make a "bold decision."
NASA on Thursday said it intends to attempt the launch of a historic, 10-day mission around the moon and back in April, following slips from launch windows in February and March.
Officials also acknowledged the mission—as with any journey beyond low-Earth orbit—may risk the lives of four crewmembers.
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Jack is a staff writer covering advanced air mobility, including everything from drones to unmanned aircraft systems to space travel—and a whole lot more. He spent close to two years reporting on drone delivery for FreightWaves, covering the biggest news and developments in the space and connecting with industry executives and experts. Jack is also a basketball aficionado, a frequent traveler and a lover of all things logistics.
