Space Launch System

The Space Launch System (SLS) is a NASA-developed heavy-lift launch vehicle designed to enable crewed missions to the Moon and beyond. As part of the Artemis program, SLS aims to return humans to the lunar surface for the first time in over 50 years. The SLS is newsworthy because it is currently undergoing final preparations for the Artemis II mission, which will be the first crewed lunar fly-around in decades. Recent developments include the slow, 12-hour transport of the 98-meter tall SLS rocket and Orion Space Capsule from the Vehicle Assembly Building to Launch Pad 39B at Kennedy Space Center in Florida. This move signifies a crucial step towards the planned launch date of February 6th. The SLS is significant due to its role in NASA's ambitious lunar exploration plans and its potential to facilitate future deep-space missions.