NASA suspended a key practice countdown for its Space Launch System (SLS) rocket on Sunday after identifying a malfunction in the mobile launcher, a critical component for lunar missions. The agency cited issues with fans designed to maintain safe air pressure in enclosed areas of the launch tower, which are essential for preventing hazardous gas buildup.
The SLS, a 322-foot-tall rocket central to NASA’s Artemis program, is intended to transport astronauts to the moon. However, the project has faced significant delays and cost overruns, with the first uncrewed test flight—Artemis 1—targeted for this summer. A wet dress rehearsal, involving propellant loading, was paused after the mobile launcher’s primary fan failed, followed by a backup system malfunction.
The incident occurred amid preparations for the test, which began on Friday and was disrupted by severe thunderstorms on Saturday. Lightning strikes near the launch site prompted temporary pauses, though NASA confirmed no damage. The mobile launcher, moved to the site in March 2022, had functioned during the storm but encountered issues during propellant loading simulations.
Launch director Charlie Blackwell-Thompson stated the decision to halt the countdown was precautionary, emphasizing the need to address the fan failures before proceeding. A new attempt is planned for Monday, with propellant loading set to begin at 7 a.m. Eastern time. If further complications arise, a Tuesday test may follow.
Artemis 1, scheduled for 2022, will send the Orion capsule on a lunar orbit mission without crew. The 2024 Artemis 2 mission will include astronauts, while Artemis 3 aims to land humans on the moon for the first time since 1972. NASA has proposed a 2025 date for Artemis 3, though delays remain possible.
