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nitpicked

(1,626 posts)
Sat Feb 21, 2026, 06:17 PM Saturday

NASA moon rocket hit by new problem expected to bump astronauts' lunar trip into April

https://abcnews.com/Technology/wireStory/nasa-moon-rocket-hit-new-problem-putting-march-130366656

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- NASA’s new moon rocket suffered another setback Saturday, almost certain to bump astronauts' first lunar trip in decades into spring.

The space agency revealed the latest problem just one day after targeting March 6 for the Artemis II mission, humanity’s first flight to the moon in more than half a century. Overnight, the flow of helium to the rocket’s upper stage was interrupted, officials said. Solid helium flow is essential for purging the engines and pressurizing the fuel tanks.
(snip)

NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman said a bad filter, valve or connection plate could be to blame for the stalled helium flow. Regardless of the cause, he noted, the only way to access the area and fix the problem is in the Vehicle Assembly Building at Kennedy Space Center.

“We will begin preparations for rollback, and this will take the March launch window out of consideration,” Isaacman said via X. NASA's next opportunities would be at the beginning or end of April.
(snip)
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NASA moon rocket hit by new problem expected to bump astronauts' lunar trip into April (Original Post) nitpicked Saturday OP
I have a feeling of dread for the crew of this space ship. n/t Jacson6 Saturday #1
This message was self-deleted by its author PeaceWave Sunday #6
We haven't been back to the Moon in over 1/2 century, so what's a few more months? Talitha Saturday #2
this is why testing is so essential.... RT Atlanta Saturday #3
Absolutely. Talitha Sunday #4
If this fails, it's just a wider door to allow Space X or others to fill the need. Melon Sunday #5

Response to Jacson6 (Reply #1)

Talitha

(7,852 posts)
2. We haven't been back to the Moon in over 1/2 century, so what's a few more months?
Sat Feb 21, 2026, 06:41 PM
Saturday

Do it right.

RT Atlanta

(2,706 posts)
3. this is why testing is so essential....
Sat Feb 21, 2026, 06:51 PM
Saturday

better to identify and address now than under firing conditions that could lead to something catastrophic

Melon

(1,263 posts)
5. If this fails, it's just a wider door to allow Space X or others to fill the need.
Sun Feb 22, 2026, 12:25 AM
Sunday

I am afraid NASA is perceived as slow and behind the curve to its more nimble competitors. Hopefully they resolve this quickly and don’t miss additional deadlines.

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