Launch controllers have arrived at their consoles at NASAKennedy to begin the second wet dress rehearsal for the Artemis II mission. The wet dress rehearsal will run teams through a full range of operations, including loading cryogenic liquid propellant into the SLS (Space Launch System) rocket’s tanks and conducting a launch countdown. The nearly 50-hour countdown began at 6:40 p.m. EST on Feb. 17. Teams will run through milestones leading up to the simulated launch time of 8:30 p.m. on Feb 19 with a four-hour launch window for the test. While NASA will not set a formal launch date until after a successful rehearsal and data reviews, managers have determined March 6 is the earliest opportunity for launch. Image description: NASA’s Artemis II Space Launch System (SLS) rocket and Orion spacecraft are seen illuminated by lights at Launch Complex 39B, Tuesday, Feb. 10, 2026, at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The orange core stage stands between two white solid rocket boost...