Tag: SLS
-
NASA confirms EUS for SLS Block IB design and EM-2 flight
Following internal conversations regarding the upper stage design for the forthcoming second flight of the Space Launch System (SLS) – named Exploration Mission -2 (EM-2) – NASA has confirmed a move to change not just the upper stage of SLS for EM-2, but also to change the iteration of SLS that will fly the mission.…
-
NIAC – Fostering tomorrow’s exploration technology
NASA is seeking technology proposals for Phase II of the 2014 NASA Innovative Advanced Concept (NIAC) campaign, according to the Agency’s latest drive for its forward thinking program. Innovating for the future of space exploration, NIAC requests proposals that further develop the “most promising” of the latest funded NIAC Phase I proposals. Funding the Future:…
-
Evolving plans: No human rating for ICPS for SLS EM-1 mission
With SLS on track to make its debut launch in December 2017 from Launch Complex 39B at the Kennedy Space Center, NASA continues its efforts to refine the vehicle’s test flight necessities ahead of EM-1 – particularly, the removal of the requirement to human rate the rocket’s Interim Cryogenic Propulsion Stage. SLS Block 1 and…
-
VAB preparing for key role during SLS processing flow
The iconic Vehicle Assembly Building (VAB) at the world famous Kennedy Space Center (KSC) may have fallen silent over recent years, but behind the scenes teams are working on a “roadmap of operations” for the giant building, ahead of its primary role with the integration of the Space Launch System (SLS) and Orion spacecraft. VAB:…
-
SLS positioning for ARRM and Europa missions
Space Launch System (SLS) managers are conducting a feasibility study into the use of a 5.4 meter payload fairing, with a view to enabling the use of the HLV for the Asteroid Redirect Robotic Mission (ARRM) spacecraft – set to launch in 2019 – and even a robotic mission to Europa. The effort is part…
-
Creating capability foundations for NASA’s exploration roadmap
NASA managers have created new mandates for future exploration systems, as the Agency continues to refine a capability-driven approach to its exploration aspirations. Working in tandem with NASA’s latest conceptual Design Reference Missions (DRMs), the requirements detail the capabilities required of the Orion crew vehicle, Space Launch System (SLS) and Ground Systems Development and Operations…
-
Lawmakers discuss potential Mars flyby mission in 2021
Experts and lawmakers reviewed an alternative plan for Orion’s first crewed mission into deep space on Thursday, claiming a Mars flyby mission in 2021 could be viable. The Science, Space and Technology hearing was held without an official NASA presence and admitted a large amount of evaluations will be required to address numerous challenges associated…
-
ASAP claim NASA is employing indecision to allow for roadmap flexibility
Concerns have again been raised about NASA’s shaky exploration roadmap, with the Aerospace Safety Advisory Panel (ASAP) claiming the Agency has elected to go down the “indecision-is-the-key-to-flexibility” path. Although only two missions have been manifested, the panel cited concerns about launching a crew into deep space on what would be the debut of Orion’s life support system.…
-
SLS launch rate requires repetitive cadence – Gerstenmaier
NASA’s Space Launch System (SLS) will launch at least once per year, as a “necessary” requirement, according to Bill Gerstenmaier. NASA’s Associate Administrator for Human Exploration and Operations recently addressed concerns over the near term schedule for the monster rocket, which will not launch humans until the next decade. SLS: The new Heavy Lift Launch Vehicle (HLV)…
-
RS-25 Second Life: SLS Core Stage engine set for summer testing
The RS-25 – the engine that enjoyed a hugely successful career with the Space Shuttle fleet – is set to begin its new life with the Space Launch System (SLS) this summer. Testing at the Stennis Space Center will initially focus on a new Main Engine Controller (MEC) and the ability to accommodate the full range of…