Alliant Techsystems tested a full-scale Reusable Solid Rocket Motor (RSRM) Feb 17 in support of NASA’s Return to Flight program. Initial results indicate the test was completely successful.
The test, conducted at ATK’s Promontory, Utah, facility, was designed to validate the performance of a mid-life rocket motor. Shuttle RSRMs are certified for flight for five years after the propellant is cast. This is the last scheduled test before the expected return to flight, which could occur as early as May 2005.
A total of 167 instrumentation channels were used to gather data in support of more than 30 test objectives. The motor fired for the expected duration of approximately two minutes. The data collected from the test will further validate motor lifespan and provide performance information not typically gained from standard static-fire tests that focus on qualifying new products and designs.
