NASA hauls moon rocket off launch pad to fix another launch-delaying malfunction

February 26, 2026

TL;DR

The Artemis II moon rocket was rolled off Launch Pad 39B at the Kennedy Space Center to the Vehicle Assembly Building.
The rollback is due to a helium pressurization problem in the rocket's upper stage (ICPS).
This issue has delayed the launch of four astronauts around the moon to at least April 1.
Engineers will work on the Interim Cryogenic Propulsion Stage (ICPS) inside the VAB, where they have better access.
Potential causes for the helium system issue include a valve, a filter in an umbilical, or a quick-disconnect fitting.
Similar problems occurred with the Artemis I mission in 2022.
Engineers will also replace limited-life batteries in the rocket's self-destruct system and the ICPS.
The mission was previously delayed from February to March due to hydrogen leaks.

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