Space Launch System RS-25 Core Stage Engine

 
Space Launch System RS-25 Core Stage Engine
Powering America’s Exploration of Deep Space: The Engines Behind NASA’s Space Launch System
 

NASA’s Space Launch System (SLS), the most powerful rocket in the world, will be powered by RS-25 engines that combine proven performance with advanced engineering and technology. The SLS will launch astronauts on missions to the Moon and eventually to Mars.

The SLS Program is taking advantage of hardware and cutting-edge manufacturing techniques developed for the Space Shuttle Program and other exploration programs. These are being integrated with new designs and new technologies, significantly reducing development and operations costs. SLS is designed to be flexible and evolvable, to meet a variety of crew and cargo mission needs.

The first SLS variant to fly, the Block 1, will be able to carry 27 t (59,525 pounds) to the Moon. It will use four RS-25 engines for the core stage, along with two solid rocket boosters.

RS-25 Core Stage Engine Evolution

The RS-25 powered the space shuttle for over three decades and completed 135 missions. It is one of the most tested large rocket engines in history, with more than 3,000 starts and more than 1 million seconds of total ground test and flight firing time.

During the Space Shuttle Program, the RS-25 underwent several design updates to improve service life, durability, reliability, safety, and performance. SLS takes advantage of that technology investment and experience.