NASA Space Launch System SLS unveiled - A Big Super Rocket

NASA announced a new space vehicle dubbed Space Launch System (SLS). The Space Launch System is a heavy-lift launch vehicle that will provide an entirely new capability for human exploration beyond Earth's orbit. NASA says that the Space Launch System will give the U.S. a safe, affordable and sustainable means of reaching beyond our current limits and opening up new discoveries from the unique vantage point of space. 

 

The Space Launch System, or SLS, will be designed to carry the Orion Multi-Purpose Crew Vehicle, as well as important cargo, equipment and science experiments to Earth's orbit and destinations beyond. Additionally, the SLS will serve as a back up for commercial and international partner transportation services to the International Space Station.

"This launch system will create good-paying American jobs, ensure continued U.S. leadership in space, and inspire millions around the world," NASA Administrator Charles Bolden said. "President Obama challenged us to be bold and dream big, and that's exactly what we are doing at NASA. While I was proud to fly on the space shuttle, tomorrow's explorers will now dream of one day walking on Mars." 

The NASA SLS will have an initial lift capacity of 70 metric tons. That's more than 154,000 pounds, or 77 tons, roughly the weight of 40 sport utility vehicles. The lift capacity will be evolvable to 143 tons, enough to lift 75 SUVs.

The first developmental flight of the SLS, or mission, is targeted for the end of 2017. This is still over half a decade away, but at least NASA has a perspective to get astronauts back into space.

More details on NASA.

 

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