Artemis II Wet Dress Rehearsal Countdown Underway
The Artemis II wet dress rehearsal countdown is officially in progress at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center, Florida. The countdown commenced at 8:13 p.m. EST as the clock marked L-48 hours ahead of the simulated launch window, scheduled for 9 p.m. on February 2. The rehearsal will run until approximately 1 a.m. on February 3, 2026.
Objectives of the Wet Dress Rehearsal
This test encompasses a comprehensive range of operations designed to prepare the launch team. It involves:
- Loading cryogenic liquid propellant into the Space Launch System (SLS) rocket’s tanks
- Conducting a complete launch countdown
- Demonstrating the ability to recycle the countdown clock
- Practicing procedures for scrubbing the launch if necessary
Support teams at the Johnson Space Center in Houston, along with other NASA centers, will also participate in this crucial rehearsal.
Countdown Phases and Milestones
The countdown is structured into “L minus” and “T minus” intervals. The “L minus” reflects the time remaining until liftoff, while “T minus” establishes a sequence of events leading up to launch. Planned pauses, referred to as “holds,” allow the team to adjust for precise timing and complete necessary tasks without affecting the overall schedule.
Key Countdown Events
Here are some significant events to occur during the countdown:
| Time Remaining | Event |
|---|---|
| L-49H 15M | Launch team arrives and countdown begins |
| L-40H | Liquid Oxygen (LOX) and Liquid Hydrogen (LH2) preparations begin |
| L-30H | Orion flight batteries charged to 100% |
| L-10H | Launch team conducts weather and tanking briefing |
| T-1M30S | Hold for verification of core stage certification |
| T-10M | Ground Launch Sequencer (GLS) initiates terminal count |
Team Roles and Responsibilities
Although the Artemis II crew members will not be present during the rehearsal, key operations involving them on launch day will be simulated. The Artemis closeout crew will practice essential tasks such as securing the Orion crew module and launch abort system hatches.
Live Updates and Streaming
A live stream of the rocket on the launch pad is available online. Throughout the tanking activities, NASA will provide additional feeds alongside real-time updates in blog posts for those following the Artemis II rehearsal.
The conclusion of the rehearsal will involve draining the propellant and a thorough data review, leading to the establishment of an official launch date.
