NASA intends to update key components of the Artemis mission architecture, including replacing the space shuttle-era engines with the new RS-25E. The space agency first tested this model on December 14 at the Stennis Space Center in Mississippi. The fire test was over in just under three and a half minutes, which is perhaps not a good sign.
Also known as the “confidence test,” the process involves firing the individual engine to confirm that the RS-25 is ready to proceed with certification testing, which is scheduled to take place earlier this year. These engines are likely to be used on the Artemis V and VI missions, scheduled for 2028 and 2029, respectively.
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These missions will be manned and will bring astronauts directly to the lunar surface, as will the Lunar Terrain Vehicle (LTV) and the final Gateway elements – the European Infrastructure Resupply and Telecommunications Delivery System (ESPRIT) and the bridge’s airlock. Module. .
In a statement, Johnny Heflin, manager of the SLS liquid engine office at NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center, explained the importance of hot testing. For him, “the test campaigns are dynamic events that allow us to learn more about the material of the SLS rocket”. The analysis of the data obtained during the test of 14 is still ongoing.
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Once NASA and Aerojet Rocketdyne have completed analyzing the data, the monitoring system will be reviewed to understand, in addition to evaluating engine performance, the reason that led to the early termination of the fire test. Since the test did not include engines that are expected to be used on missions in the near future, a longer review will not affect NASA’s flight program.
With the conclusion of the Artemis I mission, NASA and Aerojet Rocketdyne – their prime contractor for the development of propulsion elements for Artemis – are moving forward with testing and development of new mission elements. Another component, the so-called powerhead, has already been integrated. In addition, additional components (a new mouthpiece and a new controller) will be installed prior to the certification series.
“Each test, even one that doesn’t quite stop, helps us gather valuable data to fly safely,” said Chip Ellis, Stennis RS-25 project manager. The intent is to build an instrument powerful enough to launch astronauts from low Earth orbit for the first time in more than 50 years.
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