NASA Announces Design for New Deep Space Exploration System

8

Artist's conception of the Space Launch System on the launchpad (Credits: NASA).

NASA announced the design for the Space Launch System (SLS), an heavy-lift vehicle which has the potential to provide the capability for exploration beyond Earth orbit. The SLS is designed to carry the Orion Multi-Purpose Crew Vehicle, along with cargo and equipment for deep space exploration. “This launch system will create good-paying American jobs, ensure continued U.S. leadership in space, and inspire millions around the world,” said  Charles Bolden, NASA Administrator, “While I was proud to fly on the space shuttle, tomorrow’s explorers will now dream of one day walking on Mars.”

The SLS design incorporates technologies from the Space Shuttle Program, like the  liquid hydrogen and liquid oxygen propulsion system based on RS-25D/E, and from the Apollo/Saturn Program, like the J-2X engine used for the upper stage. The initial SLS configuration will also use solid rocket boosters  like the one ATK developed for the now defunct Constellation program.

The first configuration will have a lift capacity of 70 metric tons; following configurations will be able to lift up to 130 metric tons to LEO. The first developmental flight is tentatively scheduled for the end of 2017.

Tags

About the author

Andrea Gini

Facebook Email Website

Andrea Gini is a content strategy consultant specialized in companies of the space sector. He is founder of Space Safety Magazine, where he held the position of Editor-in-Chief until March 2015. Between 2011 and 2013 he worked in the European Space Agency in the Independent Safety Office, which overviews the utilization of the International Space Station. He previously worked as Software Developer, IT Consultant, and trainer of Java-related technologies. Andrea holds a BSc and an MSc in computer science from the University of Milano, a Master in Communication of Science from the International School for Advanced Studies of Trieste and a MSc in Space Studies from the International Space University.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *