Tag: SRB
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ATK/NASA investigating void issue in SLS test motor segment
Experts from ATK and NASA are investigating the cause of voids in the aft segment of the next test motor for the Space Launch System (SLS). Known as Qualification Motor -1 (QM-1), the original aft segment was scrapped following the discovery of voids via examinations, only for its replacement to mirror the problem – possibly…
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NASA looks to Kourou for SLS ground ops streamlining ideas
As development of the Space Launch System (SLS) rocket continues, NASA is looking to its international partners for inspiration and lessons learned. Specifically, the agency sent a team to Kourou, French Guiana, to observe and report on the processes and ground operations employed by the European Space Agency for the Ariane V, with an eye…
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SLS prepares for PDR – Evolution eyes Dual-Use Upper Stage
NASA’s Space Launch System (SLS) is deep into preparations for the key milestone of the Preliminary Design Review (PDR), which “kicks off” in June. Meanwhile, an interesting glimpse into the long-term plan for SLS points towards the favored use of a dual-use Upper Stage – powered by up to four RL-10 engines – known as…
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Full steam ahead for ATK’s SLS booster drive
ATK are making good progress on both the initial five segment boosters, set to launch with the opening launches of the Space Launch System (SLS), and the Advanced Boosters that may provide yet more power to the Heavy Lift Launch Vehicle (HLV) in the late 2020s. SLS Five Segment Booster: Following the success of…
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SLS SMAT: The Mini-Me version of the monster rocket
The Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC) is constructing a scaled version of the Space Launch System (SLS), ahead of test firing it later this year. Known as the Scale Model Acoustic Test (SMAT), the mini-version of the SLS will have functioning rockets mimicking both the core engines and boosters. SLS SMAT: Continuing the heritage of…
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Two mid-span supports required to avoid booster sag for QM-1
ATK will use two “mid-span” supports on their upcoming static test of their five segment Solid Rocket Booster (SRB). The large pieces of hardware will help mitigate “sagging” in the motor, as it is tested in the horizontal position. The test – known as Qualification Motor -1 (QM-1) – has been slightly delayed to later…
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The Dark Knights – ATK’s Advanced Boosters for SLS revealed
A presentation overviewing ATK’s preliminary proposal for the upcoming advanced booster competition for Space Launch System (SLS) claims the new motor will be 40 percent cheaper and 23.5 percent more reliable than the five segment booster that will initially launch with the Heavy Lift Launch Vehicle (HLV) – all while adding 15.1mT of additional performance.…
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Dynetics and PWR aiming to liquidize SLS booster competition with F-1 power
One of the most famous rocket engines in history – the Apollo/Saturn’s F-1 – could one day fly again, providing Alabama company Dynetics, teamed with Pratt and Whitney Rocketdyne (PWR), win the advanced booster competition for the Space Launch System (SLS). Their liquid booster approach would advance SLS’ capability to launch payloads of 150mt to…
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SLS Program pressing forward with engine heat shield design change
The Space Launch System (SLS) heat shields around its RS-25 engines will not follow the heritage of the Space Shuttle Program (SSP), following a decision to move away from the “eyelid and dome” style design. Instead, SLS will have a lighter flexible blanket installed, similar to that used on other vehicles and on the aft…
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One year on – Review notes superb performance of STS-135’s SRBs
One year to the day since Atlantis launched on her final mission, the exceptional performance by the Solid Rocket Boosters (SRBs) – which aided STS-135’s ride uphill during first stage flight – was noted in the seemingly independent flight performance review of STS-135 conducted by contractor agency United Space Alliance (USA), not NASA. The stunning lack…