Update on our #Artemis I objective: pic.twitter.com/7F6brN86KF
NASAs Space Launch System (SLS) rocket with the Orion spacecraft aboard is seen atop the mobile launcher at Launch Pad 39B, Friday, November 11, 2022, at NASAs Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Groups started walkdowns and assessments at the pad to assess the status of the rocket and spacecraft after the passage of Hurricane Nicole. NASAs Artemis I flight test is the very first integrated test of the companys deep space exploration systems: the Orion spacecraft, SLS rocket, and supporting ground systems. Release of the uncrewed flight test is targeted for no earlier than November 16 at 1:04 a.m. EST. Credit: NASA/Joel Kowsky
NASA continues to target Wednesday, November 16 at 1:04 a.m. EST for the launch of its Artemis I mission from the agencys Kennedy Space Center in Florida. There is a two-hour launch window for NASAs first incorporated flight test of its powerful Space Launch System (SLS) rocket and Orion spacecraft.
Beginning Thursday evening, groups conducted extensive assessments at Launch Complex 39B, closely checking SLS, Orion, mobile launcher, and other pad-related assets. They validated that there were no considerable effects from Hurricane Nicole, which made landfall more than 70 miles (110 km) south of the launch pad. The physical examinations supplemented remote monitoring utilizing sensors and high-resolution video cameras carried out throughout the storm by a group in a safe place at Kennedy Space Center.
— Jim Free (@JimFree) November 10, 2022
NASAs Space Launch System (SLS) rocket with the Orion spacecraft aboard is seen atop the mobile launcher at Launch Pad 39B, Friday, November 11, 2022, at NASAs Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Space Launch System engineers have carried out a comprehensive analysis to validate the peak and continual winds experienced during the storm have no unfavorable effect on the structural strength of the rocket. Before NASAs Space Launch System (SLS) introduces the Artemis I objective to the Moon, teams inside the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASAs Kennedy Space Center in Florida conducted a series of tests to identify the deep space rockets reflexes. Engineers have likewise eliminated the hard cover over the launch abort system window installed prior to the storm and will check the window to verify it is in great condition for launch.
NASAs Space Launch System (SLS) rocket with the Orion spacecraft aboard is seen atop the mobile launcher at Launch Pad 39B, Friday, November 11, 2022, at NASAs Kennedy Space Center in Florida.
Space Launch System engineers have carried out a comprehensive analysis to confirm the peak and sustained winds experienced throughout the storm have no negative impact on the structural strength of the rocket. Varying peak winds were measured by sensing units at different heights at the pad, and all measurements remained below 75% of SLS design limitations. Especially, these style limits are also deliberately conservative. Data from screening with real hardware during the structural test series and modal screening (see infographic listed below), as well as other evaluations and modeling, provide confidence there is margin beyond the design ratings.
Before NASAs Space Launch System (SLS) launches the Artemis I mission to the Moon, groups inside the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASAs Kennedy Space Center in Florida conducted a series of tests to figure out the deep area rockets reflexes. Throughout launch and flight, SLS will react and experience to a series of vibrations and frequencies. Engineers carry out integrated modal screening to figure out the full variety of these frequencies and vibrations so that the flight software and navigation systems can securely assist the rocket through launch and ascent. To do that, technicians utilize a test variation of the Orion phase adapter and Orion mass simulator to determine the natural frequencies, flexes, and vibration patterns of the SLS rocket. Credit: NASA
Technicians likewise are working to repair numerous small items from the storm. The majority of repairs include loose caulk or weather coverings. An umbilical used to supply purge air, or correct ecological conditions to the Orion spacecraft, was out of position. The umbilical kept purge throughout the storm and has been repositioned to allow proper retraction at liftoff. Engineers have actually likewise eliminated the hard cover over the launch abort system window set up prior to the storm and will examine the window to validate it remains in excellent condition for launch.
NASAs Space Launch System (SLS) rocket with the Orion spacecraft aboard is seen atop the mobile launcher at Launch Pad 39B, Friday, November 11, 2022, at NASAs Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Launch of the uncrewed flight test is targeted for no earlier than November 16 at 1:04 a.m. EST.
Today, as part of regular launch preparation, engineers are in the procedure of powering up rocket and spacecraft aspects to verify all systems are healthy. Engineers prepare to carry out the standard final software application and hardware-related tests needed before launch, on Sunday.