Gap The agency was working on testing a liquid hydrogen fuel system on September 17, but the date for that cryogenic test has now been pushed back to September 21, NASA’s Artemis blog said.
“The updated dates reflect careful consideration of many logistical issues, including the additional cost of more time to prepare for the cryogenic demonstration test and then more time to prepare for launch. The dates also allow managers to ensure adequate rest for teams and to increase cryogenic fuel supplies,” NASA shared in a blog post.
According to the agency, the September 21 test will include an engine bleed test. The mission team cleared the first Artemis I launched on August 29, largely due to a problem trying to cool the engines to start the engine, which they believed was caused by a faulty sensor.
The September 27 release window is 70 minutes — shorter than the 120-minute window available on September 23.
Officials at NASA said the space agency continues to provide information for the East Ridge, which should allow the rocket to remain on the launch pad.
“NASA continues to respect the East Coast process for considering the agency’s request to extend the existing test requirement for the flight termination system and to provide additional information and data as needed. In parallel, the agency continues preparations for the cryogenic. If the request is approved, the demonstration test and potential launch opportunities,” the blog said.
