NASA Fixes Fuel Leak Issues Ahead of Moon Mission

NASA is working hard to stop fuel leaks on its big rocket before the next test. The Space Launch System (SLS) used for Artemis missions has had a problem with hydrogen leaking during fueling. The leak caused a practice countdown to stop early in February. Scientists traced the problem to the lines that connect the rocket on the pad. Two tubes carry liquid hydrogen from the ground into the core of the rocket. After a recent test, engineers replaced the seals on these tubes. During another test, they filled part of the rocket with hydrogen to see if the new seals held.The test ended early because a filter seemed to block some fuel flow. They plan to replace the filter before the next full test. The safety limit for hydrogen gas near the rocket was raised from 4 % to 16 %. This change came after data showed that the rocket could handle higher concentrations without igniting. Hydrogen is very light and can escape easily, so keeping it safe is tough. NASA will redo the fueling system for Artemis III. The new design should prevent leaks and make the rocket safer before it sits on the pad again.