Space Launch System Development Status and Advanced Capability for Exploration Missions

摘要

The NASA Space Launch System (SLS) Block 1 configuration is progressing toward a 2021 first flight, which will launch an uncrewed Orion capsule to the Moon. The SLS’ Core Stage has finished its Green Run, full duration test at NASA Stennis Space Center. In this report, the SLS development status and its launch capabilities are discussed, and the new optimized Exploration Upper Stage, currently in development, which will optimize the SLS Core and Booster Stages, is presented. Ten Beyond Earth Orbit (BEO) missions, enabled or enhanced by the SLS, are also reviewed.