NASA has decided to suspend testing of the SLS (Space Launch System) rocket, considered the most powerful rocket ever due to several issues. The agency said it had some repairs in addition to assessing the current situation. In addition, the NASA moon rocket will return to the assembly building at Kennedy Space Center so that alternatives can be implemented.
The rocket, which had undergone various countdown tests from April 1st, returned unsuccessfully from the tests. This situation shows that there will be disruption in the projects connected to this rocket in the Moon mission.
Engineers detect liquid hydrogen leak on final attempt
NASA’s SLS Moon rocket first reached the launch pad four weeks before testing, which included loading the rocket and a simulated countdown. Although the first rehearsal attempt took place earlier this month, it was canceled due to a fan issue affecting the rocket’s mobile launcher.
The second attempt was canceled on April 4, when engineers detected a stuck valve in the ground equipment due to the test procedure. The third attempt over the past few weeks was a procedure that focused on refueling tanks on the main stage rather than filling the upper stage. However, engineers detected a leak of liquid hydrogen and forced the team to withdraw.
Initially, it was thought that testing could continue in the coming days. But NASA announced on Sunday that it’s sending the rocket back to the assembly shop to make some adjustments before trying again. The agency did not make any statement about the results of this step back.
Failure to have a successful trial is a major setback for NASA, but these tests are done to reveal problems. This helps engineers prepare for launch day. The agency has yet to set a date for the flight and will not be able to do so until rehearsal is complete. Artemis Launch Director, Charlie Blackwell-Thompson, said in a statement:
I have no doubt that we will finish this testing process and that the data will take us to the next step. We will take the necessary steps and launch this tool.
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