NASA is determined for an April moon launch and won’t discuss backup dates.

The agency faces challenges in discussing the risk of mission failure. NASA aims to roll the Space Launch System rocket and Orion spacecraft back to the launchpad by March 19, 2026, after resolving a helium-flow issue on the rocket’s upper stage. Following repairs and testing, NASA is focused on a launch target as early as April 1. The flight readiness review completed, the Space Launch System and Orion crew, including astronauts Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover, Christina Koch, and Jeremy Hansen, are scheduled for a 10-day moon mission. Mission managers avoid discussing potential mission failure risks, emphasizing their focus remains on the April launch timeline. Work continues in the Vehicle Assembly Building to prepare for the upcoming launch, and teams plan to fill the rocket on launch day without another wet dress rehearsal.