NASA’s Space Launch System (SLS) rocket with the Orion spacecraft aboard is seen atop the mobile … [+]
NASA’s long-awaited Space Launch System had a visit from Hurricane Nicole today, as the tropical storm rolled ashore in Florida.
The massive next-generation rocket was left out in the wind and the rain as the category one storm impacted a wide swath of the Sunshine State, including Cape Canaveral, on Thursday. The multi-billion rocket and the Orion capsule atop it were exposed to winds near or above design limits, according to meteorologist and space reporter Eric Berger at Ars Technica.
SLS is designed to withstand winds up to 74.4 knots and at least one gust of 87 knots was observed at the launch pad.
Earlier this week the expected launch of SLS on the uncrewed Artemis I mission around the moon was pushed back to Nov. 16. Liftoff could be pushed back further once NASA staff is able to return to Kennedy Space Center and inspect the vehicle.
SLS was supposed to launch earlier this year but has been delayed repeatedly by engine issues and leaks. The entire vehicle was rolled back from the launch pad to the huge Vehicle Assembly Building at Kennedy Space Center for repairs and to avoid being impacted by Hurricane Ian.
Ironically, the rocket is only designed to withstand being transported to and from the launch pad so many times, which may have factored into the decision to leave it out in the rain for Nicole.
NASA has not yet issued any updates about the status of SLS or the Artemis I mission post Nicole.
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