The history of the development, certification, and launch operations of the Space Shuttle Main Engine is described. Development problems and their solutions are discussed. Ground testing at both rated and full power levels involving four engines and eight certification test cycles totalling more than 40,000 seconds of hot-fire testing, which qualified both Columbia's and Challenger's engines for flight, are discussed. Ground checkout and flight performance of Columbia's and Challenger's engines are revealed. Future plans for the Space Shuttle Main Engine are outlined including flight certification testing to verify a life of 40 flights and 20,000 seconds operation before overhaul.


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    Title :

    Development of the Space Shuttle main engine


    Contributors:

    Publication date :

    1983-10-01


    Type of media :

    Conference paper


    Type of material :

    No indication


    Language :

    English




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