NASA’s long-awaited Space Launch System (SLS) was hit by Hurricane Nicol on November 10. This tropical storm is making landfall on the Florida coast.
A giant next-generation rocket underwent a Category 1 storm that affected large parts of Florida, including Cape Canaveral. The multibillion-dollar rocket and its Orion space capsule were exposed to high winds as designed, forecasters say .Ars Techniquespace reporter Eric Berger.
The SLS is designed to withstand winds up to 74.4 knots (approximately 138 km/h), but at least one gust of 87 knots (approximately 161 km/h) has been observed near the launch pad.
Earlier this week, the planned launch of the Artemis 1 unmanned spacecraft Artemis 1 lunar orbital mission was pushed back to November 16. Further delays are likely after NASA personnel return to the Kennedy Space Center to inspect the rocket.
SLS was due to launch in September 2022, but has been repeatedly delayed due to engine problems, fuel leaks and other issues. The entire rocket was returned from the launch pad to the giant Spacecraft Assembly Building at Kennedy Space Center for repairs and to avoid the effects of Hurricane Ian.
The rockets, by design, have a limited number of trips between the assembly building and the launch pad, which may have contributed to the decision to stay in the rain from Hurricane Nicol.
NASA has not provided any new information regarding the SLS or Artemis 1 mission schedule after Hurricane Nicol.
