NASA has begun a full-scale launch rehearsal for Artemis II at Kennedy Space Center, simulating a real countdown to test systems and teams before sending astronauts around the Moon. The exercise, running through early February 3, is a crucial step toward the first crewed lunar mission since 1972 and NASA’s broader return to deep-space exploration.

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•  NASA starts 48-hour wet dress rehearsal for Artemis II mission
•  Countdown initiated at 8:13 p.m. Eastern Time at Kennedy Space Center
•  Rehearsal simulates full launch process without rocket liftoff
•  Space Launch System fueled with liquid hydrogen and liquid oxygen
•  Engineers test countdown timing, built-in holds, and recycle scenarios
•  Ground teams rehearse crew-related procedures; astronauts not onboard
• Mission control and multiple NASA centers linked for coordination
•  Focus on validating safety after past shuttle disasters
•  Artemis II to send four astronauts around Moon and back to Earth
•  Data from rehearsal to help finalize official launch date