NASA: No damage to Artemis; focus on November launch

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October 2, 2022

Hurricane Ian as seen from the International Space Station. (NASA Photo)

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. — NASA said there was no damage to Artemis I and the Space Launch System from Hurricane Ian and is focusing on a November launch window.

The teams at the Kennedy Space Center said the facilities are in good shape in the wake of Hurricane Ian with only minor water intrusion in a few locations.

NASA said it will focus planning efforts on the launch period that opens Nov. 12 and closes Nov. 27. Over the coming days, managers will assess the scope of the work and identify a specific date for the next launch attempt.

Engineers will prepare for additional inspections and start preparation for the next launch attempt, including retesting the flight termination system.

The space agency said focusing efforts on the November launch period allows time for employees at Kennedy to address the needs of their families and homes after the storm. It also enables teams to identify additional checkouts needed before returning to the pad for launch.

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