Northrop Grumman is producing Flight Support Booster-2 boosters for the SLS lunar launch vehicle.
What is known
The new accelerator is an upgradebooster from the Space Shuttle. He received an additional section that provides a 25% increase in traction and an updated (almost 100%) electronic component.
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Northrop Grumman successfully completed a series of firingFlight Support Booster-2 test. According to the manufacturer, two boosters will be enough to provide 75% of the thrust at the initial stage of the launch of the SLS rocket.
Please note that Flight Support Booster-2will be used in the first eight Artemis missions. Starting from the ninth mission, completely new Booster Obsolescence & Life Extension, data for their design was collected during recent trials.
During the Flight Support Booster-2 test, it generated 1600 tons of thrust for two minutes. The company's specialists also evaluated the engine ignition system and the electronic thrust vector control system.
Please note that Flight Support Booster-2 will bedesigned for only one launch, while the four-section boosters for the Space Shuttle were reusable, but less powerful. Regarding Booster Obsolescence & Life Extension, they are credited with a composite body and a number of improvements, and the first test of the debut sample is scheduled for the fall.
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