NASA has successfully installed a 103-ton interstage simulator component at the Thad Cochran Test Stand in Stennis Space Center, Mississippi, to aid preparations for upcoming Moon missions. This component is essential for the Space Launch System (SLS) and will protect the rocket's upper stage, which is responsible for propelling the Orion spacecraft during Artemis missions.
The interstage simulator, now fitted with necessary piping, tubing, and electrical systems, will be used to conduct rigorous testing to ensure the safety and functionality of SLS components before they are launched into space. This new section is part of the latest SLS design iteration, Block 1B, which boasts a 40 percent increase in payload capacity compared to the previous Block 1 version.
The Exploration Upper Stage (EUS) will be able to support 38 tons of cargo with a crew or 42 tons without a crew, significantly enhancing mission capabilities. The EUS will be powered by four RL10 engines manufactured by L3Harris.
Measuring 31 feet in diameter and 33 feet tall, the interstage section is designed to absorb the thrust generated by the EUS during hot fire tests, preventing structural failure of the test stand under the engines' combined thrust of over 97,000 pounds.
This testing plays a critical role in preparing for the Artemis IV mission, which aims to transport four astronauts to the Lunar Gateway space station, followed by a descent to the lunar surface using the Starship Human Landing System (HLS).