NASA has postponed the launch of its long‑anticipated Artemis 2 mission once more. During routine reviews, the agency discovered a number of issues that would preclude a launch. The mission, scheduled to send astronauts to the Moon for the first time in 50 years, may still gain a launch clearance within the coming weeks.
Additional maintenance is required, according to NASA, which will further delay the flight. Four astronauts are preparing for a ten‑day journey that will take them to the far side of the Moon and back, marking the most distant human expedition to space ever.
The most serious problem identified was a disruption in the helium flow that is essential for pressurizing propellant tanks and cooling rocket systems. Helium is critical for launch operations, and a malfunction is seen as a significant technical risk. The test was the second attempt at a demonstration flight at Kennedy Space Center in Florida; it followed earlier issues with filters and seals that had been resolved.
The first launch window in early February had already been moved because of a hydrogen leak, and the window that had been set for March appears unlikely to be met either.
