The Mobile Launcher 2 (ML-2) project needed to move the Space Launch System (SLS) rocket to the launch pad is facing significant cost overruns and delays, according to a new report from NASA’s Office of Inspector General (OIG).
The project was initially scheduled to cost $383 million and be completed by March 2023. But its value has already reached $1.8 billion and could rise to $2.7 billion, according to OIG estimates.
Delivery of the ML-2 is now expected no earlier than September 2027, more than four years later than planned.
These delays could negatively impact the timing of future Artemis missions, including the launch of Artemis IV, which could be delayed until spring 2029.
The report also stresses that NASA should rethink its approach to project management and consider switching to fixed-term contracts to avoid similar problems in the future.
Source: Ferra
I am a professional journalist and content creator with extensive experience writing for news websites. I currently work as an author at Gadget Onus, where I specialize in covering hot news topics. My written pieces have been published on some of the biggest media outlets around the world, including The Guardian and BBC News.
