Significant hardware and software for NASA's Space Launch System (SLS) began rolling off assembly lines in 2016, setting the stage for critical testing in 2017 and the launch of new capability for deep-space human exploration. (Figure 1) At NASA's Michoud Assembly Facility (MAF) near New Orleans, LA, full-scale test articles are being joined by flight hardware. Structural test stands are nearing completion at NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC), Huntsville, AL. An SLS booster solid rocket motor underwent test firing, while flight motor segments were cast. An RS-25 and Engine Control Unit (ECU) for early SLS flights were tested at NASA's Stennis Space Center (SSC). The upper stage for the first flight was completed, and NASA completed Preliminary Design Review (PDR) for a new, powerful upper stage. The pace of production and testing is expected to increase in 2017. This paper will discuss the technical and programmatic highlights and challenges of 2016 and look ahead to plans for 2017.
NASA's Space Launch System Takes Shape
2017
14 pages
Report
No indication
English
Space Launch Vehicles & Support Equipment , Astronomy & Astrophysics , Extraterrestrial Exploration , Spacecraft launching , Launch vehicles , Solid propellant rocket engines , Liquid propellant rocket engines , Booster rocket engines , Space exploration , Engine tests , Liquid oxygen , Liquid hydrogen , Rocket test facilities , Test firing , Test stands , Nasa space programs
NASA's Space Launch System Takes Shape
NTRS | 2017
|NASA's Space Launch System Takes Shape
NTRS | 2017
|NASA's Space Launch System Takes Shape
NTRS | 2017
|NASA's Space Launch System Takes Shape
NTIS | 2017
|