Specialists at the Kennedy Space Center in Florida continue to prepare the super-heavy SLS rocket and Orion spacecraft for the Artemis II mission. On January 31, they may conduct the final test, which will allow it to be launched to the Moon.
This is a general launch rehearsal, or a “wet dress rehearsal.” Within its framework, engineers will completely fill the SLS rocket with liquid hydrogen and oxygen. Then a countdown rehearsal will be conducted, after which the fuel will be removed from the rocket. The Artemis II crew will not be inside the spacecraft during these operations.
It was precisely because of the problems that arose during the “wet rehearsal” that the first launch of the SLS in 2022 was postponed several times. Initially, there were difficulties with the mobile launch platform, then fuel leaks were detected in the rocket several times, which meant it had to be returned to the Vertical Assembly Building for repairs to the faulty components.
According to NASA representatives, engineers have taken the experience gained into account and are now carrying out the planned work at the launch site on schedule or even ahead of schedule. At the moment, the “wet rehearsal” is scheduled for January 31.
At the same time, the NASA team performed maintenance on the SLS rocket boosters and continued work on preparing Orion, including placing items inside the spacecraft and performing scheduled pyrotechnic work on the crew escape system. Technicians also checked the four RS-25 engines on the first stage of the SLS. Specific measures are being taken in response to the colder weather in Florida caused by the snowstorm that has hit the US. As for the Artemis II crew, they have been in quarantine in Houston since January 23.
The next launch window for Artemis II will open on February 6. For more details about the flight plan for the first lunar mission in 54 years, read our article.
According to NASA
