NEW
ORLEANS, July 16, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Boeing
[NYSE: BA] has provided NASA with the second core stage of the
Space Launch System (SLS) rocket. Built at NASA's Michoud Assembly
Facility (MAF), the core stage is designed to send the Artemis II
crew to lunar orbit for the first time in 50 years.
The Boeing-built rocket stage, which is the largest component of
the Artemis II mission, will be loaded onto the Pegasus barge and
transported 900 miles to NASA's Kennedy Space Center. Once there,
it will be integrated with the other Artemis II components,
including the upper stage, solid rocket boosters, and NASA's Orion
spacecraft inside the Vehicle Assembly Building. This integration
is a crucial step in preparation for the Artemis II launch,
scheduled for 2025.
"Boeing-built products helped land humankind on the moon in
1969, and we're proud to continue that legacy through the Artemis
generation," said Dave Dutcher, vice
president and program manager for Boeing's SLS program. "Together,
with NASA and our industry partners and suppliers, we are building
the world's most capable rocket and paving the way to deep space
through America's rocket factory in New
Orleans."
The delivery of Core Stage 2 signifies a major achievement in
the development of the SLS rocket. This core stage, measuring over
200 feet tall and powered by four
RS-25 engines, alongside two solid-fueled booster rockets,
will provide the 8.8 million pounds of necessary thrust to propel
Artemis II and future missions into space.
SLS is the only rocket capable of carrying crew and large cargo
to the moon and beyond in a single launch. Its unmatched
capabilities will deliver human-rated spacecraft, habitats, and
science missions to the moon, Mars and beyond.
As a leading global aerospace company, Boeing develops,
manufactures and services commercial airplanes, defense products
and space systems for customers in more than 150 countries. As a
top U.S. exporter, the company leverages the talents of a global
supplier base to advance economic opportunity, sustainability and
community impact. Boeing's diverse team is committed to innovating
for the future, leading with sustainability, and cultivating a
culture based on the company's core values of safety, quality and
integrity. Join our team and find your purpose at
boeing.com/careers.
Contact:
Megan Gessner
Boeing Communications
+1 256-640-3036
Megan.gessner@boeing.com
Boeing Media Relations
media@boeing.com
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SOURCE Boeing