Weather looks favourable for Artemis launch despite cloud

What’s Happening

Alright so Artemis II is close to launch - Simon King explains the critical importance of the weather to its success.

Weather looks favourable for Artemis launch despite cloud Image source, Image caption, Nasas Artemis II Space Launch System rocket and Orion spacecraft sits on Launch Pad 39B at the Kennedy Space Center on 31 March in anticipation of lift off By Simon King Lead Weather Presenter Published 30 March 2026 Updated 9 hours ago Nasa hopes to launch the first crewed mission around the Moon in more than 50 years, but weather may decide if the Artemis astronauts actually take off. If the conditions arent right then the space agencys meteorologists will be the ones to “scrub” or cancel the launch attempt. (shocking, we know)

The Artemis II rocket contains nearly 750,000 gallons of propellant, so lightning is one of the biggest risks to safety.

The Details

So what are the chances of the weather delaying the launch from Cape Canaveral in Florida? Image source, Image caption, Thunderstorms like this one hitting the Kennedy Space Center in March 2025 will delay rocket launches because of safety concerns April showers With the launch window opening up on 1 April at 18:24 EDT (23:24 BST) and lasting for two hours, a threat of convective - known as cumulus - cloud, showers, strong winds and even solar activity is being closely monitored.

In Florida the spring sunshine is now bringing more heat and warmer days. Meanwhile, high pressure in the western Atlantic is producing an easterly breeze blowing from the ocean, bringing increased moisture to the eastern coast of Florida.

Why This Matters

This combination of heat and moisture can lead to lots of cumulus cloud developing. As these grow thicker, they bring the threat of showers and thunderstorms. Official Nasa forecasts suggest the weather will be 80% favourable for launch within the two hour window.

Scientists and researchers are watching this development closely.

Key Takeaways

• It is hoped that any clouds or strong winds may stay far enough away to allow the rocket to get airborne and safely through Earths atmosphere.
• If not, 2-6 April are also potential launch days.

The Bottom Line

It is hoped that any clouds or strong winds may stay far enough away to allow the rocket to get airborne and safely through Earths atmosphere. If not, 2-6 April are also potential launch days.

What do you think about all this?