Why Artemis II Was Scrubbed Until March (Now April) NASA's Hydrogen Problem Explained

This week on Today In Space...space nerds leave Florida disappointed as Artemis II is scrubbed until March (Now no earlier than April) — and cryogenic hydrogen does what it does best: leak. In this episode, we break down: Why liquid cryogenic hydrogen is both an incredible and deeply frustrating rocket fuel How Artemis I scrubbed three times in 2022 due to hydrogen leaks The forgotten history of the "Summer of Hydrogen" (1990) during the Space Shuttle era Why SLS inherits many of the same strengths — and weaknesses — as the Space Shuttle What this means for Artemis II launch timing in 2026 Hydrogen rockets are powerful, elegant, and environmentally cleaner — but they are also notoriously fickle. If you want to understand why scrubs are normal, why patience is required, and why Artemis II will eventually fly, this episode is for you. We'd like to thank our sponsors: AG3D Printing (go to ag3d-printing.com to learn more & start 3D printing today!) Support the podcast: • Buy a 3D printed gift from our shop - Today In Space Merch: James Webb Space Telescope Model (3DPrinted) SpaceX Starship-Inspired Rocket Pen (3DPrinted) • Get a free quote on your next 3D printing project at • Donate at todayinspace.net

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Why Artemis II Was Scrubbed Until March (Now April) NASA's Hydrogen Problem Explained is an episode from Today In Space by Alexander G. Orphanos.

This episode is 10:09 long.

This episode was published on Feb 7, 2026.

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