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NASA's Space Launch System (SLS), crucial for the Artemis Moon missions, faces an uncertain future. While Congress considers extending its use to five launches, the White House aims to cancel it after three, favoring cheaper commercial options. Recent tests of new RS-25 engines and solid rocket boosters, vital for future SLS missions (including Artemis V and IX), yielded mixed results. A successful engine test was followed by a solid rocket booster test failure, with the nozzle shattering prematurely. The SLS's long-term viability remains highly debated.

Prepared by Olivia Bennett and reviewed by editorial team.