Launch of Orion Spacecraft Ascent Abort 2 Test

Watch a fully functional launch abort system (LAS) and test Orion spacecraft launch to an altitude of 31, 000 feet at Mach 1. 15 (more than 1, 000 mph) On July 2, 2019, NASA successfully demonstrated the Orion spacecrafts launch abort system can outrun a speeding rocket and pull astronauts to safety during an emergency during launch. News release: Orion was launched atop a Northrop Grumman provided booster from Launch Pad 46 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. The test is another milestone in the agencys preparation for Artemis missions to the Moon that will lead to astronaut missions to Mars.