9 sources·Science

NASA Delays Artemis II and III Missions Amid Heat Shield Concerns

NASA has announced new delays for its Artemis II and III missions due to ongoing heat shield issues with the Orion capsule and potential policy changes under the incoming administration.

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Updated: Dec 6th, 2024, 10:14 AM ET

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NASA has delayed the Artemis II mission to April 2026 and Artemis III to mid-2027, primarily due to heat shield issues found during the Artemis I test. Despite setbacks, NASA Administrator Bill Nelson emphasized the U.S. commitment to lunar exploration ahead of China's 2030 goals. The Artemis program, which aims to return astronauts to the moon and establish a lunar base, is experiencing technical challenges and rising costs, with estimates reaching $93 billion. The program's future may be influenced by upcoming changes under President-elect Donald Trump.

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