December 23, 2024

Artemis I SLS Rocket Core Stage Engineering Testing Complete

The SLS is an innovative, heavy-lift rocket that will supply a completely brand-new ability for science and human expedition beyond Earths orbit. Credit: NASA
Recently, engineers and service technicians effectively finished an engineering test series of the Space Launch System (SLS) rocket core phase inside the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASAs Kennedy Space Center as part of the integrated screening prior to launch.
After testing and changing one of four RS-25 engine controllers, the group performed a number of tests to make sure the huge core stage is all set to roll to the launch pad for the damp dress wedding rehearsal ahead of the Artemis I introduce. Technicians and engineers evaluated interaction between the flight computers and other core phase systems and somewhat moved the engines to practice the gimbaling they will experience throughout flight.
This time-lapse programs among four RS-25 engines for the Artemis I objective gimbaling inside the Vehicle Assembly Building as part of incorporated screening ahead of launch. This engine flew on four Space Shuttle flights and has 11 starts and 4,955 seconds of run time. Credit: NASA

All 4 engine controllers were powered up and carried out as expected as part of the Artemis I Core Stage engineering tests. Following the power up, engineers effectively carried out diagnostic tests on each controller.
Up next, the team will perform a second countdown sequencing test to show the ground launch software application and ground launch sequencer, which checks for health and status of the vehicle while at the pad. The simulated launch countdown checks the reactions from SLS and the Orion spacecraft, guaranteeing the sequencer can run without any problems. After the countdown test and final closeouts are total, SLS and Orion will head to the launch pad for the very first time to finish the wet dress rehearsal test.

By NASA
January 16, 2022