Artemis II Reaches Core Stage Slow Fill in Wet Dress Rehearsal
The Artemis II mission has taken a significant step forward as teams initiated the slow fill process of the Space Launch System (SLS) rocket’s core stage. This crucial phase involves filling the core stage with super-cooled liquid hydrogen and liquid oxygen, marking the onset of propellant loading during the wet dress rehearsal.
Understanding the Slow Fill Process
The slow fill begins after a successful chilldown of the rocket’s liquid hydrogen and liquid oxygen lines. The liquid hydrogen is chilled to an extreme temperature of minus 423 degrees Fahrenheit, while the liquid oxygen reaches minus 297 degrees Fahrenheit. This gradual process is essential for thermally conditioning the tanks and their hardware.
Significance of Slow Fill
- The slow fill process minimizes thermal stress on the rocket.
- It ensures the integrity of the systems involved.
- Hundreds of thousands of gallons of cryogenic propellant are safely managed.
The transition to a fast fill will occur after the slow fill is completed, ensuring all systems are fully prepared. To optimize public engagement, a 24/7 live stream captures the rocket at the launch pad, along with a separate feed dedicated to the wet dress rehearsal activities.
Key Dates and Future Plans
The Artemis II mission continues to evolve, with major milestones expected as the wet dress rehearsal progresses. With the slow fill officially underway, preparations for the actual launch are advancing steadily. The mission aims to contribute significantly to future space exploration initiatives.
For the latest updates on the Artemis II mission and other space exploration news, visit Filmogaz.com.
