Tag: MPS
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SLS Core Stage MPS: more than just a fuel tank
One of the main elements of NASA’s Space Launch System (SLS) Core Stage that makes it more than just a big fuel tank is the Main Propulsion System (MPS). All the equipment for the care and feeding of uprated Space Shuttle Main Engines (SSME), adapted for SLS by Aerojet Rocketdyne as the RS-25, is repackaged…
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Vehicle of Record – SLS spares majority of Discovery’s storied MPS
As engineers finalize the removal of Main Propulsion System (MPS) hardware from the retired Space Shuttle fleet – comprising of large elements of the orbiter’s “guts” that are being donated to the Space Launch System (SLS) program – Orbiter Flow manager Stephanie Stilson revealed that “her baby”, Discovery, has held on to most of her…
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Engineers begin removing orbiter MPS components for donation to SLS
Kennedy Space Center engineers have begun removing Main Propulsion System (MPS) hardware from the aft of the retired orbiters. The flight-flown hardware – a natural match to the RS-25Ds the SLS will initially fly with – will live on with the monster rocket, as much as some of the orbiter hardware will be focused on…
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PRCB managers recommend Atlantis and Endeavour become SLS donors
NASA managers have further refined their plans to transfer Orbiter and Ground Support Equipment (GSE) Main Propulsion System (MPS) hardware to the Space Launch System (SLS). Known as hardware retention, the plan now calls for Discovery to remain untouched, while Atlantis and Endeavour would donate their “inners” to play a key role in the development…
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Shuttle orbiters may donate their entire MPS hardware to SLS
NASA’s three retired Space Shuttle orbiters are set to donate their entire Main Propulsion Systems (MPS) to the opening salvo of Space Launch System (SLS) Heavy Lift Launch Vehicles (HLV). The work to remove the MPS’ array of plumbing, tanks and valves from the aft of the orbiters would result in a delay of six…
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Shuttle Program updates MPS Inventory for STS-133 and beyond
For what is likely the last time during the execution of the Space Shuttle launch/mission manifest, engineers from around the agency have updated the Main Propulsion System (MPS) Inventory – an extensive database aimed at continuously adding to and improving knowledge of the operational characteristics of this highly critical vehicle component. Purpose and Background: As…
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STS-128: PV12 troubleshooting begins ahead of MMT launch decision
The push to return Discovery back to launch operations has begun, with initial troubleshooting via five test cycles of the LH2 inboard fill and drain valve at the pad complete, following issues with the PV12 (pneumatic valve) during STS-128’s second launch attempt. The goal is to gain confidence the issue is instrumentation – as opposed…