NASA ignites 2024 with first hot fire test for Artemis moon rocket engine

Vital tests 

Information gathered from the test series will play a crucial role in certifying the production of new RS-25 engines by Aerojet Rocketdyne, the lead contractor, and an L3Harris Technologies company. These engines will be instrumental in propelling the SLS rocket during upcoming Artemis missions, starting with Artemis V, as NASA aims to explore the Moon and beyond.

According to the space agency, teams are assessing the performance of various new engine components, such as nozzles, hydraulic actuators, flex ducts, and turbopumps. This ongoing series marks the final phase in certifying the production of upgraded engines. NASA concluded an initial 12-test certification series with these enhanced components in June 2023.

"During the January 17 test, operators followed a “test like you fly” approach, firing the engine for the same amount of time – almost eight-and-a-half minutes (500 seconds) – needed to launch SLS and at power levels ranging between 80 percent to 113 percent," said a statement from NASA. 

Three months into the current test series initiated in October, the significant hot fire test on January 17 marked a crucial step. During three tests last fall, the engine operated for durations ranging from 500 to 650 seconds. Notably, on November 29, 2023, the longest planned test occurred, with crews steering the engine for nearly 11 minutes (650 seconds) using the gimbaling technique, essential for SLS control during orbit entry. 

Significant progress

The SLS flights rely on four RS-25 engines, collectively generating over 2 million pounds of thrust during launch. The first four Artemis missions utilize modified space shuttle main engines, capable of powering up to 109 percent of their rated level. Newly produced RS-25 engines will operate at the 111 percent level, providing extra thrust. The testing, reaching the 113 percent power level, enhances operational safety, according to NASA. 

Anticipating the completion of the 2024 test campaign, preparations are underway to produce 24 new RS-25 engines, set to debut in missions starting with Artemis V. 

Standing at just under 100 meters in height, the SLS is slightly smaller than SpaceX's full-stack Starship, coupled with a booster that measures 120 meters. The SLS was specifically engineered for greater power than the Apollo Saturn vehicles that transported astronauts to the Moon in the 1960s and 70s. With a payload capacity exceeding 27 metric tons, SLS enables NASA to transport substantial cargo to the Moon. This aligns to establish a sustained human presence on the lunar surface beyond the Artemis III mission.

Artemis, NASA's initiative, envisions a sustained lunar presence for scientific exploration with global collaborators. It aims to develop capabilities for extended space habitation, paving the way for future human missions to Mars.