NASA's Space Launch System (SLS) rocket, accompanied by the Orion spacecraft, has begun its journey to the launchpad at Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The massive vehicle is set to make history as part of NASA's Artemis II mission, which will see Commander Reid Wiseman, Pilot Victor Glover, and Mission Specialist Christina Koch embark on a perilous journey around the Moon, with Canadian Space Agency specialist Jeremy Hansen joining them on this historic expedition.
The SLS rocket, paired with the Orion spacecraft, is set to take off no later than April 2026. A specially designed Crawler-transporter 2, measuring roughly the size of a baseball infield, has been tasked with ferrying the duo to Launch Complex 39B. This behemoth of an engine-powered vessel has played a pivotal role in transporting rockets and spacecraft to the launchpad for over five decades.
The Crawler-transporters have proven themselves invaluable assets in NASA's mission to explore space. Each one is equipped with powerful locomotive engines and massive electrical power generators, allowing it to haul heavy payloads like rockets and spacecraft to the launchpad. With Crawler-transporter 2 set to play a starring role in the Artemis missions, this trusted vessel has cemented its place as an indispensable part of NASA's space exploration efforts.
The SLS rocket, paired with the Orion spacecraft, is set to take off no later than April 2026. A specially designed Crawler-transporter 2, measuring roughly the size of a baseball infield, has been tasked with ferrying the duo to Launch Complex 39B. This behemoth of an engine-powered vessel has played a pivotal role in transporting rockets and spacecraft to the launchpad for over five decades.
The Crawler-transporters have proven themselves invaluable assets in NASA's mission to explore space. Each one is equipped with powerful locomotive engines and massive electrical power generators, allowing it to haul heavy payloads like rockets and spacecraft to the launchpad. With Crawler-transporter 2 set to play a starring role in the Artemis missions, this trusted vessel has cemented its place as an indispensable part of NASA's space exploration efforts.
I'm low-key excited about the SLS rocket and Orion spacecraft's journey to the launchpad 
. It's insane that we're gonna have a whole crew on board for Artemis II, including Canadians! 
I mean, what's even more impressive is how they're getting all this massive equipment there - Crawler-transporter 2 is like, whoa 
. NASA's always pushing the limits with these missions and it's awesome to see that their Crawler-transporters have been doing the job for years 
. It feels like we're getting closer to actual human space travel 
!
I'm loving the hype around the SLS rocket 
with the Artemis mission. The fact that this is happening so soon is a testament to NASA's dedication and progress 
. It'll be amazing to see them in action, ferrying the SLS rocket to Launch Complex 39B. Fingers crossed for a smooth launch and an unforgettable journey for the astronauts 
Jeremy Hansen joining the team is a great addition, he's gonna bring some awesome Canadian expertise to the table 
I'm literally counting down the days until April 2026 when this massive rocket takes off... it's just so cool to think about all the progress NASA is making towards returning humans to the Moon and beyond 
. I'm crossing my fingers they make it happen before April 2026 
!
SLS rocket and Orion spacecraft are total game-changers, can't wait to see them in action. Crawler-transporter 2 is an unsung hero of NASA's space program, always behind the scenes but keeping everything moving 
. The fact that Canadians like Jeremy Hansen are part of this historic crew is awesome 
. It's amazing to think that Crawler-transporter 2 is going to play such a big role in this mission 
. Bring on the Artemis missions and let's get ready to make some out-of-this-world discoveries 
... can't believe we're going back to the moon! 
, moving heavy stuff all around Florida 
. I feel so inspired by all the ppl working on this mission 
! Canadian Space Agency rocks 
!
i mean i know its meant to be strong but still its kinda intimidating thinkin bout all the weight its gonna have to carry on this journey 
theres somethin more special happenin here and im lowkey hyped 
can't wait for them to test their lunar walking skills on this mission... and btw who needs a 2-person crew when you've got a 1,000 ton rocket 
.