• Uncategorised

NASA ready for first launchpad test of its mega moon rocket

NASA will have a third go at conducting a launchpad test of its next-generation moon rocket at the Kennedy Space Center in Florida on Saturday, April 9. This is despite the emergence of another technical issue that NASA is now working to resolve.

NASA’s next-generation “mega moon rocket” on the launchpad at Kennedy Space Center in Florida. NASA

Two previous attempts over the past week to begin the so-called “wet dress rehearsal” were called off due to the discovery of technical problems, the first one due to a fan issue linked to the rocket’s mobile launcher, and the second due to a stuck valve on ground equipment at the pad. On Thursday, NASA reported the discovery of another issue, this time regarding helium purge pressure on the upper stage engine.

After a troubleshooting process, engineers managed to establish normal helium purge, but they’re continuing to investigate what caused the issue. All being well, the two-day wet dress rehearsal will begin at the Kennedy Space Center on Saturday at 2:40 p.m. ET.

The exercise will involve NASA engineers filling the powerful Space Launch System (SLS) rocket with fuel before conducting a mock countdown. If all goes to plan and no more technical issues appear, NASA will be able to prepare for the first launch of the SLS rocket and Orion spacecraft, hopefully in the next couple of months. The uncrewed Artemis I mission will send Orion on a fly-by of the moon in a comprehensive test of its spaceflight systems.

Artemis II will fly the same route but with a crew on board, while the highly anticipated Artemis III mission, currently slated for no earlier than 2024, will put the first woman and first person of color on the lunar surface.

It looks like NASA needs to catch a break with the long-awaited launchpad test of its next-generation rocket.

Alongside the technical issues of recent days, the date for the first test attempt also had to be rescheduled after four lightning strikes hit the launchpad’s lightning towers.

Editors’ Recommendations

Tags:

ann-summers listed on couponmatrix.ukbobbi-brown listed on couponmatrix.ukfc-moto listed on couponmatrix.ukjojo-maman-bebe listed on couponmatrix.ukmedino listed on couponmatrix.uktypo listed on couponmatrix.uk
ann-summers listed on couponmatrix.ukIntroduce some va-va-voom into the bedroom with Ann Summers, our favourite destination for adult toys, lingerie and nighttime essentials. Whether you’re flying solo or as a couple, this LGBTQ+ friendly brand is guaranteed to turn up the heat of your love life. We’ve rounded up the best ways to save on your online haul, including Ann Summers discount codes, BOGOF offers and new customer savings, so with Groupon’s help, you can bring on the buzz without breaking the bank!
bobbi-brown listed on couponmatrix.ukIf only the creme de la creme of cosmetics will do, treat yourself to a Bobbi Brown beauty haul. Featuring high-quality, luxury makeup, this collection is a favourite of celebrities and makeup artists with each product guaranteed to give your beauty bag a boost. Use a Bobbi Brown discount code from us on an award-winning foundation stick, shimmery illuminating powder or intensive skin serum, and elevate your look to designer status while keeping your bank balance intact.
fc-moto listed on couponmatrix.ukAre you an adventure seeker? Love the outdoors? Mad about motorbikes? If so, FC Moto has the clothing and accessories for you! Just one look at their shop and you won’t be able to wait to get out and about in your new kit. With your FC Moto discount code, you can stock up on everything you need - whether you’re motorbiking, skiing, cycling, or anything else - for some great prices! As one of the biggest names in biking, you’ll be in safe hands with FC Moto.
jojo-maman-bebe listed on couponmatrix.ukFrom pregnancy to pre-school, Jojo Maman Bebe has all your clothing and accessories under wraps. With wonderful colours, playful designs and comfortable fits for both mother and baby, you can uncover a new world of maternity, baby and toddler clothing for less with a Jojo Maman Bebe discount code. In addition to fashions for you and your little one, you can also pick up nursery furniture, toys and accessories such to ensure all your new-parent needs are covered.
medino listed on couponmatrix.ukWhen you feel under the weather, a trip to the pharmacy can feel like an impossible feat – that’s where Medino steps in. It’s the pharmacy from your phone, where you can order prescriptions, cold and flu remedies, hay fever tablets and skincare products from the comfort of your home (or bed!). Save yourself the trouble with a Medino discount code and choose one of the fast, free delivery options. With a healthy student discount and amazing offers, you’ll be back to your old self in no time.
typo listed on couponmatrix.ukTypo brings a bit of quirkiness into the every day. From Typo mugs and notebooks to home storage and throws, there’s something to make home, work or school more fun! At Groupon, we believe everyone deserves the chance to save money, so we’ve gathered up the available Typo discount codes plus the best money-saving opportunities. With 20% student discount, multi-buy offers and a year-long sale, there are so many ways to add some Typo to your life for less!