The Space Launch System (SLS) rocket and Orion spacecraft are set to return to launch pad 39B at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, USA, on June 6, for the next wet dress rehearsal for the Artemis I mission. The rocket is expected to start moving at 18:01 CEST (17:01 BST). Tanking operations will start no earlier than June 19.

NASA's SLS rocket with Orion and the European Service Module on top at the Vehicle Assembly Building. Credits: ESA–M. Cowan
NASA’s SLS rocket with Orion and the European Service Module on top at the Vehicle Assembly Building. Credits: ESA–M. Cowan

The rehearsal is the final test needed before launch and calls for NASA to load propellant into the rocket’s tanks, conduct a full launch countdown, demonstrate the ability to recycle the countdown clock, and drain the tanks to practice timelines and procedures for launch.

While inside the Vehicle Assembly Building, teams assessed the liquid hydrogen system leak at the tail service mast umbilical, replaced the interim cryogenic propulsion stage (ICPS) gaseous helium system check valve and support hardware, and modified the ICPS umbilical purge boots. The addition of hazardous gas detectors above the upper stage allows for additional visibility into any potential leaks during cryogenic operations.

The hatches, or access points, of the crew module and launch abort system are now closed in preparation for rollout. Engineers installed rain gutters on the crew access area to help prevent moisture from entering the crew module while the spacecraft and rocket are at the launch pad. Teams have started retracting the service platforms that surround the Moon rocket and spacecraft in the VAB for rollout configuration ahead of their return to the launch pad.

NASA will provide livestream views the rollout of the SLS rocket and Orion spacecraft from VAB and arrival at launch 39B, a process that takes many hours.