Orion and Space Launch System

Orion Update:  Insider exclusive: Orion designed to keep crew in the ‘loop’  Lockheed Martin, NASA’s prime contractor for development of the Orion crew module, is paying close attention to the requirements and limitations of future crew members as it proceeds, according to the company’s crew module director. Work is underway at NASA’s Johnson Space Center on the spacecraft that is to start human explorers on new missions of deep space exploration.

SLS Test:  Space Launch System engine test brings out a rainbow  NASA conducted its first 2017 ground test firing of an RS-25 rocket engine, which is like those that will power the first stage of the Space Launch System (SLS) exploration rocket. The 380 second test firing, closely monitored by propulsion engineers, took place at NASA’s Stennis Space Center in Mississippi. Currently, the first test launch of the SLS is planned for late 2018. The SLS first stage includes four of the RS-25s, which were left over from NASA space shuttle fleet.  (See also:  ULA gives sneak peek at SLS’ second stage before it gets shipped to Florida; NASA Space Launch System opens pathway to Mars — and thousands of jobs on Earth;  Culberson praises NASA’s Space Launch System and Earth Science programs

Commercial Spaceflight Federation Endorsement:  Leading commercial space group embraces NASA’s biggest rocket  Alan Stern, chair of the Commercial Spaceflight Federation, conveyed the organization’s support for NASA’s Space Launch System during a Washington conference this week. The federation sees benefits accruing from the NASA-led development of the SLS, a crucial element of NASA’s plans to resume human deep space exploration, said Stern.  (See also: Commercial group endorses use of Space Launch System)

Citizens for Space Exploration – a pro-space, taxpayer, grassroots advocacy group (http://www.bayareahouston.com/content/c_s_e/c_s_e) – has traveled to Washington, D.C. the past 24 years to meet face-to-face with Members/staff of Congress to discuss the value of America’s investment in space exploration. In order to sustain that dialogue on a regular basis, Citizens distributes “Space Exploration Update” to Congressional offices on a weekly basis. The intent is to provide an easy, quick way to stay abreast of key human space exploration program and policy developments.