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6d ago

Artemis II Nears Key Rehearsal as SLS–Orion Stands at Pad for Possible Early‑February Launch

A wet dress rehearsal by Feb. 2 will determine whether NASA proceeds to the Feb. 6–11 window or defers to later opportunities.

Some experts aren't convinced of NASA's reassurances that the Orion spacecraft, which will house its Moon astronauts, is safe to use.
The astronauts of Artemis II (from left) Victor Glover, Jeremy Hansen, Reid Wiseman and Christina Koch leave crew quarters December 20, 2025 during their pre-launch rehearsal. Craig Bailey, FLORIDA TODAY via USA TODAY NETWORK
NASA’s Orion spacecraft, which sits atop the Space Launch System rocket for liftoff, are seen at Kennedy Space Center in Florida on January 17.
An Orion heat shield configured using the block structure is seen.

Overview

  • The fully stacked Space Launch System and Orion rolled to Launch Complex 39B and are undergoing final pad checkouts ahead of the fueling rehearsal.
  • NASA has not set a target date, with flight readiness decisions hinging on wet dress data and safety reviews for February, March, or April opportunities.
  • The 10‑day crewed lunar flyby will test Orion’s life‑support, displays, software, and operations with Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover, Christina Koch, and Jeremy Hansen on a free‑return trajectory.
  • Following heat‑shield charring seen on Artemis I, NASA adjusted Artemis II’s reentry profile to reduce thermal loads, though some experts have questioned the approach and the agency maintains safety margins.
  • Public engagement includes an SD card carrying millions of submitted names and an official flight kit featuring a Wright Flyer fabric swatch, an Apollo‑era flag, a Ranger 7 photo negative, and partner agency items.