NASA Eyes March Launch Opportunity for Artemis II Following Fuel Test

NASA concluded a wet dress rehearsal for the Artemis II test flight early Tuesday morning, February 3, 2026, successfully loading cryogenic propellant into the Space Launch System (SLS) tanks and draining the rocket. While the test identified some challenges, NASA is now targeting March as the earliest possible launch opportunity.

Wet Dress Rehearsal Details

The wet dress rehearsal involved fueling the SLS rocket, a critical pre-launch test designed to identify and resolve potential issues before an actual launch attempt. Engineers monitored the impact of cold weather at Kennedy Space Center on systems and implemented procedures to ensure hardware safety throughout the approximately 49-hour countdown, which began on January 31, 2026.

Prior to the full fueling, teams conducted a vent and relief test on the interim cryogenic propulsion stage (ICPS) liquid hydrogen tank, verifying the correct operation of vent and relief valves to maintain safe pressure levels. They also completed a liquid hydrogen chilldown of the lines for the ICPS, cooling the propellant lines to minus 423 degrees Fahrenheit to prepare for loading super-cold liquid hydrogen. NASA

Challenges and Adjustments

According to NASA, engineers encountered several challenges during the two-day test. These challenges prompted a review of data and a decision to conduct a second wet dress rehearsal. The Artemis II astronauts, who entered quarantine in Houston on January 21, will be released and will re-enter quarantine approximately two weeks before the next targeted launch opportunity.

Upcoming Press Conference

NASA has announced a press conference regarding Artemis II, scheduled for 3 p.m. EDT on March 12. Updates and the latest news will be available on the Artemis II mission hub.

Artemis II Mission Overview

During the Artemis II mission, the interim cryogenic propulsion stage, powered by an RL10 engine, will provide the in-space boost needed to send the Orion spacecraft into high Earth orbit before its translunar injection burn. NASA

A 24/7 live stream of the rocket at the pad remains online, along with a separate feed to capture wet dress activities.