Xin Lang Cai Jing·2026-01-17 12:36Core Viewpoint - NASA is preparing to launch the Space Launch System (SLS) rocket and Orion spacecraft, marking a significant step in the Artemis II mission aimed at sending astronauts to lunar orbit [1] Group 1: Mission Details - The SLS rocket and Orion spacecraft, manufactured by Boeing and Lockheed Martin respectively, are being transported to the launch pad at Kennedy Space Center in Florida, a journey of 4 miles that will take up to 12 hours [1] - The Artemis II mission plans to send four astronauts to lunar orbit and return them to Earth within ten days, with the launch originally scheduled for late 2024, now planned for no later than April [1] Group 2: Development and Challenges - The SLS rocket has been in development for approximately 15 years, facing budget overruns and delays, having only launched once in 2022 for an unmanned test flight around the Moon [1] - Following the transport and inspection of the launch pad, NASA will conduct a simulated launch exercise at the end of January, which is a critical step for advancing subsequent phases of the mission [1]