NASAs Space Launch System (SLS) rocket with the Orion spacecraft aboard is seen brightened by spotlights atop a mobile launcher at Launch Complex 39B, March 18, 2022, after being rollout out to the launch pad for the first time at NASAs Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Credit: NASA/Joel Kowsky
The Space Launch System rocket and Orion spacecraft for the Artemis I mission are rolling to Launch Complex 39B at the Kennedy Space Center in Florida ahead of launch, currently targeted for August 29. At about 10 p.m. EDT (7 p.m. PDT) the crawler-transporter began the roughly 4-mile, journey from the Vehicle Assembly Building (VAB) to Launch Pad 39B.
When outside the VAB high-bay doors, the Moon rocket will make a prepared time out enabling the team to rearrange the Crew Access Arm before continuing to the launch pad. The journey is expected to take between eight and 12 hours. Once the rocket has actually arrived at the launch pad, NASA will provide an update.
Artemis is the initial step in the next period of human exploration. Together with industrial and global partners, NASA will develop a sustainable presence on the Moon to get ready for human missions to Mars.
By NASA
August 16, 2022
