According to NASA, the final fire testing of the main stage of the SLS (Space Launch System) launch vehicle is scheduled for March 18. The countdown to the start of testing will be launched on March 16, after which it will remain to wait for the test launch of all four RS-25 main stage engines. This check should be the last one before the final assembly of the SLS LV before the launch of the unmanned mission to the Moon.

Stand B2 for static firing tests of rocket engines. Image source: NASA

The final fire testing of the main stage of the SLS LV was supposed to take place on January 19, but after the engines were started, the automation abnormally interrupted the testing. The test was postponed to February 26, but was postponed again after a malfunction of the liquid oxygen supply valve to one of the engines was discovered. In early March, the valve was repaired and tested as part of its system. Now NASA is confident that everything will work as it should.

Second stage SLS (ICPS) and Orion spacecraft together in the processing shop. Image source: NASA

Before starting the countdown and the final test, NASA engineers will once again conduct a comprehensive check of the main stage and automation. After all the tests, the main stage will be sent by barge to the NASA Center. Kennedy in Florida for final assembly. This center already houses the second stage, two accelerators and the Orion spacecraft. All this is waiting for the completion of the checks of the main stage, the schedule is all pushed aside and pushed back. But there is still hope for the launch of the SLS LV to the Moon this year.