All articles tagged with #launch readiness
NASA says Artemis II, a four-astronaut crewed lunar flyby—the first crewed lunar mission in more than 50 years—is on track to launch as early as April 1 after addressing issues that caused February–March postponements; officials say the test flight carries some risk but the team and hardware are ready, with remaining work underway.
NASA fueled the Artemis 2 Space Launch System at Kennedy Space Center on Feb. 2 for a critical wet dress rehearsal, during which LH2 leaks at the tail service mast umbilical were briefly encountered but quickly addressed. The test kept Artemis 2 on track for a potential Feb. 8 liftoff, pending weather and a successful overall rehearsal, with a press briefing to update the status expected on Feb. 3.
An internal congressional memo raises doubts about Rocket Lab's claim that its Neutron rocket will be ready for launch by December 15, 2024, to meet a crucial Space Force contract deadline. The memo suggests that Rocket Lab has misrepresented its launch readiness and escalates its campaign to gain a competitive advantage. Uncertainties around the rocket's engine testing and completion of launch infrastructure at NASA's Wallops Flight Facility are highlighted as major issues. Rocket Lab declined to comment on the memo's claims.