Press Release: Northrop Grumman (NYSE: NOC) has achieved a significant milestone in
space exploration technology with a successful testing of an advanced
second-stage motor for ascent propulsion from another planet. This
crucial test ensures that when the first rocket launches from another
planet such as Mars, it would have the capability to launch samples from
the planet’s surface into its orbit for a precise rendezvous in space
with an orbiter.
The recent motor test was conducted at Northrop Grumman’s Elkton, MD
campus. The Elkton facility designs and manufactures solid and liquid
propulsion systems and controls for some of the nation’s most complex
defense and space systems. Elkton is headquarters for Northrop Grumman’s
propulsion systems & controls business unit, the company’s premier
advanced propulsion provider for hypersonic, missile defense and space
systems, and strategic programs.
"With this third successful full-scale static test, we have demonstrated
a near-flight ready design using proven space materials and
propellants,” said Jeff Bemis, program manager of the Mars Ascent
Propulsion System (MAPS) program at Northrop Grumman. "We’ve been to
Mars before using materials and propellants such as these. Our materials
and propellants have a legacy of proven reliability and are well-suited
for the extreme conditions of space and planetary protection
requirements." A dozen Northrop Grumman solid rocket motors have been
successfully used for prior Mars missions.
The recent motor test was conducted to validate a change to the
propellant, aimed at increasing overall vehicle performance. This
propellant is a longstanding workhorse in Northrop Grumman's catalog of
STAR™ motors, used in numerous near-Earth and deep space missions. The
test confirms the readiness of ascent propulsion to support future
missions to other planets regardless of the chosen landing technology.
“This test exemplifies Northrop Grumman’s ability to rapidly transition
from design to hardware build and testing, while adhering to timelines
and budgets,” said Jonathan Katz, MAPS Chief Engineer, Northrop Grumman.
“The team will continue comprehensive analysis and testing to ensure
the flight motors meet future mission requirements, including launch and
landing loads specific to planets like Mars, as well as extreme thermal
conditions. Northrop Grumman remains at the forefront of advancing
human exploration of Mars.”
Northrop Grumman is a leading global aerospace and defense technology
company. Our pioneering solutions equip our customers with the
capabilities they need to connect and protect the world and push the
boundaries of human exploration across the universe. Driven by a shared
purpose to solve our customers’ toughest problems, our employees define
possible every day.
With nearly 100,000 employees and over 30 million square feet of
manufacturing space – more than 500 football fields – we have the
capacity, scale, and agility to drive innovation at unprecedented
speeds. Our manufacturing approaches do more than just produce; they
accelerate and enhance the entire process from design and development to
production and testing. We’ve invested in U.S. infrastructure, R&D,
our workforce, and our supply chain to deliver today and tomorrow’s
national security needs.
More info here.
