Artemis I Update: Cryogenic Demonstration Completed; Watching Tropical Storm

SLS during a Cryogenic Demonstration Test | Credit: NASA

After concluding repairs to a liquid hydrogen leak detected during a launch attempt on September 3, NASA completed a cryogenic demonstration test on September 21. This test verified the leak was repaired (they did detect a leak, but they used pressure to reduce it to very low levels), the engine bleed, and new tanking procedures. The team was hoping to launch on September 27 but decided to waive off the launch opportunity due to to tropical Storm Ian which will likely become a hurricane once it reaches the Cape. NASA is making preparations for rolling back to the VAB so they can keep the personel and the vehicle safe during the hurricane. They are still preserving the option of remaining at the pad should conditions improve with a final decision being made on the 25th. If SLS remains at the pad, the next launch attempt would likely be on October 2. Keep updated on the Artemis I mission here on Future Astronaut and at blogs.nasa.gov/artemis.