NASA’s Space Launch System (SLS) rocket, a key element of the mission to return humans to the Moon after more than 50 years, may be canceled. According to Ars Technica space journalist Eric Berger, the chances are no less than 50/50. This applies to all modifications of the rocket, from the original Block 1, which was used in the unmanned Artemis I mission in 2022, to the more powerful Block 1B and Block 2 configurations.
While official decisions have not been made, Berger’s reports raise serious questions about whether the project should continue to be funded. The problems that have accompanied SLS for years include multi-billion dollar budget overruns and significant delays. Former NASA deputy administrator Lori Garver has already called the project unsustainable.
Political burdens and financial challenges
The SLS rocket has become the subject of political debate. Its budget has been exceeded by $6 billion, and its implementation has been delayed for more than five years. Former NASA administrator Michael Griffin, during a congressional hearing, called the Artemis program overly complex, incredibly expensive, and compromising crew safety.
The first SLS launch of the Artemis I mission in 2022, despite being considered a success, has raised new concerns. The Orion spacecraft has sustained damage that casts doubt on whether astronauts can be safely sent to the Moon in the future.
Infrastructure poses additional challenges. The cost of one of the launch towers for future missions has risen to $1.8 billion, and the configuration of Block 1B, which Boeing is developing, is significantly behind schedule.
Comparison with alternatives
In addition, the SLS is a one-time rocket, which means that new stages should be built for each next mission, making it extremely expensive to operate. This is in dramatic contrast to SpaceX’s fully reusable Starship system, which NASA plans to use for Artemis III, the first manned mission to the surface of the Moon.
If NASA decides to cancel SLS, alternatives may have to be sought. Berger suggests that this could be launching the Orion spacecraft using SpaceX’s Falcon Heavy rockets or ULA’s Centaur V.
Uncertain future
No decisions have been made yet, and, according to Berger, new approaches to the implementation of the lunar program may only emerge with the new US administration. However, financial pressures and the success of competitors like SpaceX are forcing NASA to reprioritize.
We previously reported on how Artemis was jeopardized by NASA’s astronomical spending.
Provided by futurism.com
