Artemis 2 launch delayed by Arctic blast

NASA has delayed the Artemis 2 launch timeline because an Arctic blast brought unusually cold temperatures and winds to central Florida; the rocket is on the pad and the four crew members remain in quarantine.

With about a week to the planned launch, NASA announced a delay to the Artemis 2 timeline after a rare Arctic outbreak brought extreme cold and gusty winds to central Florida. Engineers reviewed hardware capabilities against the forecast and managers chose to change the schedule. The rocket remains on the launch pad and the four astronauts are in pre-launch quarantine. Teams at the site are described as prepared for the upcoming wet dress rehearsal, though its timing has been adjusted. Known facts: - NASA announced a change to the Artemis 2 timeline because of an Arctic blast bringing extreme cold and winds to Florida. - Engineers and managers assessed hardware and weather forecasts before making the decision. - The rocket is on the launch pad and mission teams say preparations continue. - The four crew members are in quarantine ahead of the mission. - NASA indicated the wet dress rehearsal remains planned but its timing was adjusted. Summary: The decision pauses the planned pre-launch test and alters the near-term schedule to avoid conditions that would violate launch rules. Undetermined at this time.