Aerospace

NASA’s Artemis 1 Launch Live Updates: NASA to attempt the launch of Artemis 1 moon mission today

NASA to attempt the launch of Artemis 1 moon mission today after many delays

The Artemis 1 mission will launch on November 16 after being approved by NASA engineers. On November 16, a two-hour launch window beginning at 1.04 AM EST (11.34 AM IST) will see the launch of the Artemis 1 stack, which consists of the Orion spacecraft and the SLS (Space Launch System) rocket, from Launch Complex 39B of the Kennedy Space Center in Florida.

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Liquid hydrogen and liquid oxygen tanks in the core stage have been filled, however a leak in the liquid hydrogen “replenish” valve occurred when the upper stage was being fuelled. A “red crew,” assembled by the NASA launch team, was able to stop the leak by tightening nuts on the valve. The red crew has received particular training to perform tasks inside and close to a tanked launch vehicle.

The 'red crew' at @NASAKennedy heading out to the rocket on the mobile launcher at Launch Pad 39B. pic.twitter.com/1EImA7Z6ER
— NASA's Exploration Ground Systems (@NASAGroundSys) November 16, 2022
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After the leak was rectified, the launch director was informed by NASA’s Range Flight Safety team that the mission is a “no-go” because one of the launch-related assets is down. The team diagnosed the problem and came to the conclusion that an unreliable Ethernet switch was to blame.

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Originally slated to launch on November 14, the Artemis 1 mission had to be delayed due to tropical storm Nicole. The Orion spacecraft and SLS rocket were left at the launch facility to weather the storm and sustained minor damage as a result. According to NASA, some caulk (sealant) on Orion’s launch abort system broke loose during the storm. In addition, engineers may need to replace an electrical connector on the hydrogen umbilical cord since they are getting erratic data from it.

In the meantime, on November 16 at 10.30 PM ET, the launch broadcast will begin (9 AM IST on November 16).

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Aerospace

Boeing Transfers Rocket Stage to NASA, Paving Way for Human Moon Mission

Image:Boeing

Boeing has achieved a significant milestone by providing NASA with the second core stage of the Space Launch System (SLS) rocket.

This crucial component, crafted at NASA’s Michoud Assembly Facility (MAF), is set to propel the Artemis II crew into lunar orbit, marking humanity’s return to deep space after a 50-year hiatus.

The monumental Boeing-built rocket stage, the largest element of the Artemis II mission, will embark on a journey aboard the Pegasus barge, traveling 900 miles to NASA’s Kennedy Space Center.

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Upon arrival, it will be meticulously integrated with other essential Artemis II components, including the upper stage, solid rocket boosters, and NASA’s Orion spacecraft within the iconic Vehicle Assembly Building. This intricate integration process is a vital step toward the eagerly anticipated Artemis II launch, slated for 2025.

“Boeing-built products helped land humankind on the moon in 1969, and we’re proud to continue that legacy through the Artemis generation,” remarked Dave Dutcher, vice president and program manager for Boeing’s SLS program. “Together, with NASA and our industry partners and suppliers, we are building the world’s most capable rocket and paving the way to deep space through America’s rocket factory in New Orleans.”

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The delivery of Core Stage 2 marks a significant achievement in the evolution of the SLS rocket. Towering over 200 feet and powered by four RS-25 engines, this core stage, coupled with two solid-fueled booster rockets, will generate a staggering 8.8 million pounds of thrust. This immense power is crucial to launching Artemis II and future missions into the vast expanse of space.

The SLS rocket stands unparalleled in its capability to transport both crew and substantial cargo to the moon and beyond in a single launch. Its extraordinary capacity will facilitate the delivery of human-rated spacecraft, habitats, and scientific missions to destinations including the moon and Mars, ushering in a new era of space exploration.