NASA Explains Live at 12PM EST Why Orion Capsule Launch Failed, Retry on for Tomorrow

NASA’s next-generation Orion capsule was scheduled for its first test flight this morning, but several issues throughout the launch window prevented it from taking off, so we’ll have to wait until tomorrow to try again. The capsule is the next step in bringing humans to deep space locations including Mars, and NASA scientists will discuss what went wrong with today’s launch live at 12PM EST.

For a quick overview, the launch was first delayed when a boat strayed too close to the launch site, and then it got a bit too windy for takeoff. When the wind died down, launching was initiated again only to be called off due to fuel valve problems on the Delta 4 Heavy rocket that was supposed to propel Orion into space.

The test flight would’ve tested the capsule’s heat shield and parachute landing system, from which astronauts would probably appreciate proper function. The test flight has been rescheduled for tomorrow morning, December 5th, so we’ll all just have to learn to be patient.

It’s still a long way to go to Mars anyway, so we could all stand to learn a lesson from Elmo.

(via Space.com and The Guardian)

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Dan Van Winkle

Dan Van Winkle (he) is an editor and manager who has been working in digital media since 2013, first at now-defunct Geekosystem (RIP), and then at The Mary Sue starting in 2014, specializing in gaming, science, and technology. Outside of his professional experience, he has been active in video game modding and development as a hobby for many years. He lives in North Carolina with Lisa Brown (his wife) and Liz Lemon (their dog), both of whom are the best, and you will regret challenging him at Smash Bros.

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