Artemis 2 SLS wet dress rehearsal latest news: Moon rocket fueling test now set for Feb. 2 - Space

NASA is preparing for the Artemis II mission, which aims to send astronauts around the Moon. A critical component of this preparation is the wet dress rehearsal for the Space Launch System (SLS) rocket, which is scheduled for February 2, 2026. This rehearsal will involve loading propellant into the rocket, marking a significant step before the actual launch. The SLS rocket and the Orion spacecraft have already arrived at Launch Pad 39B at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, where the rehearsal will take place (NASA). The Artemis II mission is notable as it will be the first crewed flight of the SLS rocket, which has faced safety concerns regarding its readiness for human spaceflight. Despite these concerns, NASA is moving forward with its plans, emphasizing the importance of the upcoming wet dress rehearsal as a final major test before the launch (CNN, The Week). Following the fueling test, NASA leaders will hold a news conference on February 3, 2026, to discuss the initial results of the rehearsal (NASA). In addition to the Artemis II preparations, NASA is also coordinating with SpaceX for the Crew-12 mission to the International Space Station, which is set to launch on February 11, 2026. This mission will involve a crew rotation and follows a recent medical evacuation at the ISS (NASA, Space). The Artemis II mission and the Crew-12 mission highlight NASA's ongoing efforts in human space exploration and its collaboration with commercial partners.