The first launch attempt for the Artemis I rocket was waved off due to an issue with one of its engines, but engineers are looking into a fix and a date for the next launch opportunity has already been set.

It is not uncommon to scrub rocket launches because of weather, technical problems or issues on the launch range or ground support equipment, and safety always comes first.

On crewed missions, astronauts make use of a few more days on Earth to enjoy the fresh air without a busy schedule, and have extra time to relax, exercise, stay with family and friends or even catch up on some emails.

Environmentally-minded German ESA astronaut Matthias Maurer used a delay in his launch schedule last year to go collecting plastic waste from the local beach.

For Shaun the Sheep, our intrepid ESA woolly astronaut, this temporary delay also means a few extra days on Earth, to soak up the sunshine and get some refresher training in the Crew Module… or maybe he’ll keep busy by replying to fans on his social media channels, while listening to his space playlist!

Shaun chilling in the crew capsule. Credits: ESA/Aaardman-SJM Photography
Shaun chilling in the crew capsule. Credits: ESA/Aaardman-SJM Photography