NASA suspends Artemis I rocket test over launch pad problems

NASA called off the last major test of its SLS rocket for the Artemis I mission on Sunday. There were problems with the launch pad that made it unsafe to fuel the rocket. The test may continue on Monday.

The test was discontinued on Sunday when it turned out that it was no longer possible to keep the closed parts of the launch pad under pressure with two fans. According to Space.com there were problems with the fuses and a backup fan was not working. The two fans keep the sealed components within the launch pad pressurized, keeping out harmful gases.

The US space agency says it is not possible to safely fuel the rocket without that pressure. Therefore, the test was stopped on Sunday. NASA says it is working on a solution to the problems and hopes that the test can continue on Monday.

Friday started the final test of the Space Launch System rocket before it can be used for the Artemis I moon missions. It’s about the law dress rehearsal, filling the rocket with fuel and starting the launch countdown. It will be discontinued just before launch. The test tests the procedures surrounding the launch. Soon the SLS rocket with an Orion spacecraft should be launched for the first time for a test mission to the moon. In 2025, NASA aims to carry out the first moon mission with people on board with SpaceX.