NASA’s Space Launch System (SLS) and Exploration Ground Systems (EGS) programs are working with Core Stage prime contractor Boeing and prime test operations and support contractor Jacobs to finish repairs to thermal protection system (TPS) spray-on foam insulation on the Artemis 1 Core Stage at the Kennedy Space Center in Florida.
The TPS foam, cork, and foil performed well during the final, critical test cases of the Green Run campaign in mississippi, which culminated in three propellant loading cycles, two test-firings, and one full duty cycle — all firsts for the SLS program. Now that the stage is out of the test stand and indoors in the transfer aisle of the Vehicle Assembly Building, teams can reach all the spots on the exterior where the foam insulation needs repairs; once those repairs are complete, EGS and Jacobs can move into preparations for stacking the Core with the two SLS boosters.