NASA has adjusted the targeted dates for a cryogenic demonstration test and to the next launch opportunities for Artemis I. A demonstration test is now planned for no earlier than 21 September, with a request for a launch opportunity 27 September, with a potential backup opportunity of 2 October under review.

Times for the potential launch opportunities are:

  • 27 September: 70-minute launch window from 17:37 CEST (16:37 BST, 11:37 local time), the Orion crew capsule would then land back on Earth on 5 November.
  • Under review: 2 October: 109-minute launch window from 20:52 CEST (19:52 BST, 14:52 local time) the Orion crew capsule would then land back on Earth on 11 November.

Artemis I teams completed repair work to the area of a hydrogen leak, reconnecting the ground- and rocket-side plates on the quick disconnect for the liquid hydrogen fuel feed line where two seals were replaced last week. Teams will conduct tests at ambient conditions to ensure there is a tight bond between the two plates before testing again during the cryogenic tanking demonstration, and begin preparations for the test. During the demonstration, launch controllers will load supercold liquid oxygen and liquid hydrogen into the core stage and interim cryogenic propulsion stage of the SLS rocket. The demonstration will allow teams to confirm the hydrogen leak has been repaired, evaluate updated propellant loading procedures designed to reduce thermal and pressure-related stress on the system, conduct a kick-start bleed test, and evaluate pre-pressurization procedures.

NASA is continuing to respect the Eastern Range’s process for review of the agency’s request for an extension of the current testing requirement for the flight termination system and is providing additional information and data as needed. In parallel, NASA is continuing preparations for the cryogenic demonstration test and potential launch opportunities, should the request be approved.