NASAs Space Launch System (SLS) rocket with the Orion spacecraft aboard is seen at sunrise atop the mobile launcher at Launch Pad 39B as preparations for launch continue, Monday, November 7, 2022, at NASAs Kennedy Space Center in Florida. NASAs Artemis I flight test is the first incorporated test of the agencys deep area exploration systems: the Orion spacecraft, SLS rocket, and supporting ground systems. Release of the uncrewed flight test is now targeted for November 16. Credit: NASA/Joel Kowsky
NASA has decided to re-target a launch for the Artemis I objective for Wednesday, November 16, as the firm continues to keep track of Tropical Storm Nicole. Changing the target launch date will allow the labor force to tend to the needs of their households and homes, and provide sufficient logistical time to get back into launch status following the storm. Previously it was set up for launch on November 14 at 12:07 a.m. EST
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Based on expected weather conditions and options to roll back ahead of the storm, the agency identified Sunday night the safest alternative for the launch hardware was to keep the Space Launch System (SLS) rocket and Orion spacecraft secured at the pad.
The Moon is seen during a total lunar eclipse above NASAs Space Launch System (SLS) rocket with the Orion spacecraft aboard atop a mobile launcher at Launch Pad 39B, Tuesday, November 8, 2022, at NASAs Kennedy Space Center in Florida. NASAs Artemis I flight test is the first incorporated test of the companys deep area exploration systems: the Orion spacecraft, SLS rocket, and supporting ground systems. Credit: NASA/Joel Kowsky
The SLS rocket is developed to hold up against 85 mph (74.4 knot) winds at the 60-foot level with structural margin. Present forecasts anticipate the best risks at the pad are high winds that are not expected to go beyond the SLS design. The rocket is designed to withstand heavy rains at the launch pad and the spacecraft hatches have actually been secured to prevent water invasion.
In preparation for the storm, teams have actually powered down the Orion spacecraft, SLS core phase, interim cryogenic propulsion stage, and boosters. Engineers have actually likewise set up a hard cover over the launch abort system window, retracted and protected the crew access arm on the mobile launcher and set up the settings for the ecological control system on the spacecraft and rocket aspects. Groups also are protecting neighboring hardware and performing walkdowns for prospective particles in the area.
Teams are poised to resume work as quickly as weather and Kennedy center status allows. Once back on-site, professionals will carry out walkdowns and assessments at the pad to examine the status of the rocket and spacecraft as quickly as practicable.
A launch during a two-hour window that opens at 1:04 a.m. EST on November 16 would lead to a splashdown on Friday, December 11. If required, NASA has a backup launch chance on Saturday, November 19, and will collaborate with the U.S. Space Force for extra launch opportunities.
The firm continues to count on the most current info from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), U.S. Space Force, and the National Hurricane Center throughout its evaluations and continues to closely keep track of conditions for the Kennedy area.
NASAs Space Launch System (SLS) rocket with the Orion spacecraft aboard is seen at dawn atop the mobile launcher at Launch Pad 39B as preparations for launch continue, Monday, November 7, 2022, at NASAs Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Changing the target launch date will enable the workforce to tend to the needs of their households and houses, and offer adequate logistical time to get back into launch status following the storm. The Moon is seen throughout a total lunar eclipse above NASAs Space Launch System (SLS) rocket with the Orion spacecraft aboard atop a mobile launcher at Launch Pad 39B, Tuesday, November 8, 2022, at NASAs Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Engineers have actually also installed a tough cover over the launch abort system window, pulled back and protected the crew access arm on the mobile launcher and configured the settings for the ecological control system on the spacecraft and rocket aspects.