• Source:JND

The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) is all set to launch its new mission called Artemis II. However, the agency announced that the engineers discovered a technical glitch in the rocket. Therefore, the launch, which is scheduled for March 6, will reportedly be delayed.

The project aims to send astronauts around the Moon and bring them back to Earth. The launch is significant; it will mark the first time when the Indian astronauts will travel so far into space.

The mission Artemis II will include four astronauts to travel on a 10-day journey around the farthest side of the moon. Although the mission would not land on the Moon, it is a significant step towards a future landing.

NASA Administrator Informs About Delay

The delay of the launch was unfortunate; NASA claimed that the launch on March 6 is now "out of consideration." Sharing a post on X, NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman stated that engineers found a technical problem connected to the helium system of the rocket during final checks. Because of this, more work is needed before the rocket can safely lift off. He claimed that he is aware of the fact that people will be disappointed by the delay.

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Isaacman mentioned the issue may involve a faulty filter, valve, or connection plate. He said the only way to inspect and repair the affected area is to roll the 322-foot (98-meter) Space Launch System rocket back to its hangar at Kennedy Space Center in Florida.

How Was The Glitch Detected?

Just a day prior to the announcement of the delay, NASA carried out a full "wet rehearsal" test at the Kennedy Space Center.

To replicate launch circumstances, the rocket was loaded with about 730,000 gallons of fuel during this test. The group thought the practice went well. After resolving previous challenges, such as hydrogen leaks brought on by filter and seal problems, this was their second effort. Engineers discovered the issue overnight and chose to be cautious, even though previous inspections revealed no issues.

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Who All Are There In The Crew?

The crew for Mission Armetis II includes three American astronauts Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover, and Christina Koch along with Canadian astronaut Jeremy Hansen. They will travel aboard the Orion spacecraft, launched by NASA’s powerful Space Launch System rocket. Artemis II will prepare the way for Artemis III, which aims to land astronauts on the Moon for the first time since 1972. The last Moon landing was during the Apollo program.

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