At NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the meticulous preparation of the Space Launch System (SLS) rocket’s components is underway. On November 28, 2023, the team focused on the right forward center segment. This step is crucial for the Artemis II mission’s success.
The segments arrived in September and have since undergone rigorous inspection. Each piece is carefully elevated to a vertical position. This process ensures the solid propellant and segments are launch-ready.
After processing all 10 segments, they’ll be transferred to the Vehicle Assembly Building. Here, the segments are stacked on the mobile launcher. Each booster, standing 17 stories tall, is a powerhouse. They burn about six tons of propellant per second, generating immense thrust.
The twin boosters are a key part of the SLS. They provide over 75% of the total thrust at launch. This immense power is equivalent to more than 14 four-engine jumbo airliners.
The Artemis II mission is a significant step for NASA. It aims to send four astronauts around the Moon. This mission lays the groundwork for long-term lunar science and exploration. It also paves the way for future Mars missions.
