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Helium Fault Forces Artemis II Rollback, March Launch Window Scrubbed

The rocket must return to the VAB to access and repair a helium‑flow fault in the upper stage.

Overview

  • Engineers detected interrupted helium flow to the SLS upper stage, a critical system for engine purges and tank pressurization.
  • NASA says the fix can only be done in the Vehicle Assembly Building, and preparations to roll back the stack are underway.
  • The agency has removed March launch opportunities, with early April dates such as April 1 and 3–6 now under consideration.
  • A second wet dress rehearsal earlier this week saw no significant hydrogen leaks, though teams are still reviewing brief comms dropouts and a booster avionics voltage anomaly.
  • The four Artemis II astronauts had entered quarantine for a March attempt but are now standing down to await the revised timeline.