NASA says it needs to haul the Artemis II rocket back to the hangar for repairs
Ars Technica • • science
Key Points:
- NASA announced a new technical issue with the Artemis II Space Launch System (SLS) rocket involving an interruption in helium flow to the upper stage, requiring the rocket to be rolled back from Launch Complex 39B to the Vehicle Assembly Building (VAB) for repairs.
- This setback eliminates the possibility of a March launch for Artemis II, which was initially targeted for as early as March 6, pushing the next feasible launch window to April 1 or later.
- The helium system problem, critical for purging and pressurizing the upper stage, is under investigation, with potential causes including valve failure, umbilical interface issues, or filter faults; technicians cannot access the problem area while the rocket is on the pad.
- The rollback
