NASA Prepares Artemis 2 SLS for Critical Fueling Test in Wet Dress Rehearsal

Jordan Hartwell

Published: February 2, 2026 10:09 AM ET

NASA Prepares Artemis 2 SLS for Critical Fueling Test in Wet Dress Rehearsal

NASA is progressing towards its Artemis 2 mission, with critical preparation phases underway for its Space Launch System (SLS) rocket. The Artemis 2 wet dress rehearsal marks a significant milestone in this preparatory process, particularly the upcoming fueling test.

Upcoming Artemis 2 Fueling Test Schedule

The wet dress rehearsal includes a crucial fueling test that is scheduled for February 2, 2026. Non-essential personnel have been cleared from Launch Pad 39B at Kennedy Space Center, enabling a focused environment for the fueling operations.

Fueling will commence at 11 a.m. EST (1600 GMT) and is expected to last approximately 10 hours. A simulated T-0 launch is targeted for 9 p.m. EST (0200 GMT, February 3) but could be extended to 1 a.m. EST (0600 GMT) of the following day.

Background of the Artemis 2 Mission

Core Stage Powering: The core stage of the SLS, measuring 322 feet tall, has been powered on in a series of operations leading up to the fueling.
Liquid Propellant: The rocket will be loaded with over 700,000 gallons of cryogenic liquid oxygen and hydrogen during the fueling phase.
Launch Date: If the fueling test is successful, the Artemis 2 mission is set to launch astronauts to the Moon as early as February 8, 2026.

Significance of the Wet Dress Rehearsal

The wet dress rehearsal simulates pre-launch operations, including cryogenic propellant loading, countdown procedures, and system checks. These tests are essential to ensure that every component of the mission operates smoothly on launch day.

The Artemis 2 mission will last about 10 days, with four astronauts orbiting the Moon in the Orion spacecraft. The anticipated launch window for this mission extends from February 8 to February 11, 2026, with additional opportunities in March and April.

Impact on Other Missions

The Artemis 2 launch could influence upcoming crewed missions to the International Space Station (ISS), including NASA’s Crew-12 mission. If Artemis 2 launches within its designated window, the Crew-12 launch may be delayed until at least February 19.

NASA’s systematic approach ensures readiness for this pivotal moment in space exploration, marking a return to human lunar flight after more than 50 years. All tests and preparations are crucial for the success of the Artemis 2 mission, paving the way for future lunar exploration.