Space Launch System
Space Launch System
On September 14, 2011, NASA announced its design selection for the new launch system, declaring that it would take the agency's astronauts farther into space than ever before and provide the cornerstone for future US human space exploration efforts.
The Space Launch System, or SLS, is a heavy launch vehicle being designed by NASA. It follows the cancellation of the Constellation Program, and is to replace the retired Space Shuttle. The NASA Authorization Act of 2010 envisions the transformation of the Ares I and Ares V vehicle designs into a single launch vehicle usable for both crew and cargo. It is to be upgraded over time with more powerful versions. Its initial capability of the core elements, without an upper stage, will be between 70 metric tons (for the Block 0 configuration with 3 engines and a partially fuelled core) and 100 metric tons (for the Block I configuration with 4 engines and a fully fuelled core) to low-Earth orbit in preparation for missions beyond low-Earth orbit. With the addition of an integrated upper Earth Departure Stage and a fifth SSME-derived core engine, the total lift capability is to be 130 metric tons
