The launch was originally scheduled for March 2026, but preparatory work was halted due to identified technical malfunctions in the Space Launch System (SLS) rocket, which is intended to launch 'Orion' into low Earth orbit.
According to NASA, on the night of February 21, engineers discovered issues with the helium supply in the intermediate cryogenic stage of the rocket, which required additional equipment checks. As a result, it was decided to return the rocket to the assembly shop to address the identified malfunctions.
NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman stated that the issues that have arisen will negatively impact the launch window in March; however, a new launch date has not yet been determined.
The 'Artemis-2' mission is planned as the first crewed flyby of the Moon under the new U.S. program for exploring Earth's satellite.
