Aerojet Rocketdyne Installs RS-25 Rocket Engines for NASA’s Space Launch System
In a significant milestone for NASA’s Space Launch System (SLS) program, Aerojet Rocketdyne has begun the installation of four RS-25 liquid-propellant rocket engines in the second core stage at the Michoud Assembly Facility (MAF) in New Orleans. This marks a crucial step towards future space missions and the Artemis program.
The installation process, however, faced delays due to core stage readiness issues. Despite these setbacks, Aerojet Rocketdyne, with its dedication and expertise, has successfully installed the first engine, engine 2059, in the number two position of the core stage on September 11.
Improved procedures were implemented after a thorough review conducted after the Artemis I mission. Clearances between the engines and the core stage are tight, but the experienced team at Aerojet Rocketdyne has practiced the procedure extensively and is confident in their abilities.
Of the four engines being installed, two, namely E2047 and E2059, have previously flown on several Space Shuttle missions. The remaining two engines are new spares from the Shuttle program, ensuring optimum performance and reliability for future space endeavors.
Following the complete installation and securement of the engines, comprehensive leak checks will be conducted to verify the integrity of the interfaces between the stage and the engines. This meticulous testing process is crucial for ensuring safe and successful launches.
Once the leak checks are completed and confirmed, the stage will undergo electrical, pneumatic, and hydraulic checkouts. Additional testing and inspections will be carried out to ensure the engines are in optimal condition for transport to NASA’s Kennedy Space Center for launch.
This engine installation at the MAF is significant as it is the last one planned to be conducted horizontally. Future core stages will be assembled and installed vertically at the Vehicle Assembly Building. Aerojet Rocketdyne is actively collaborating with NASA to transform an engine service area in the Vehicle Assembly Building into a pre-shipment processing area for future core stages.
The installation of the RS-25 liquid-propellant rocket engines brings NASA one step closer to its ambitious goal of returning humans to the lunar surface. The SLS, with its powerful propulsion system, will play a vital role in the Artemis missions, which aim to land astronauts on the Moon by 2024.
With Aerojet Rocketdyne’s expertise and dedication, along with NASA’s steadfast commitment to exploring the wonders of the cosmos, the future of space exploration looks brighter than ever.
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