A crane lifts the Core State Inter-tank Umbilical (CSITU) for NASA's Space Launch System (SLS) at the Launch Equipment Test Facility at the agency's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The CSITU will be attached to the "C" tower of the Vehicle Motion Simulator 2 test fixture. The umbilical will undergo a series of tests to confirm it is functioning properly and ready to support the SLS rocket for launch. The CSITU is a swing arm umbilical that will connect to the SLS core stage inter-tank. The umbilical's main function is to vent gaseous hydrogen from the core stage. The arm also provides conditioned air, pressurized gases, and power and data connection to the core stage. The center’s Engineering Directorate and the Ground Systems Development and Operations Program are overseeing processing and testing of the umbilicals.
Core Stage Inter-Tank Umbilical Installation
The team that tested the umbilical lines and accessories that will connect from the mobile launcher to NASA's Space Launch System rocket and Orion spacecraft for Exploration Mission-1 hold a banner signing event July 24, 2018, to mark completion of testing at the Launch Equipment Test Facility (LETF) at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Attending the event is Mike Bolger, center, Exploration Ground Systems manager. A total of 21 umbilicals and launch accessories were tested on various simulators at the LETF before they were transferred to the mobile launcher for installation.
LETF Banner Event
The team that tested the umbilical lines and accessories that will connect from the mobile launcher to NASA's Space Launch System rocket and Orion spacecraft for Exploration Mission-1 hold a banner signing event July 24, 2018, to mark completion of testing at the Launch Equipment Test Facility (LETF) at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Speaking at the event is Shawn Quinn, far right, director of Engineering. Next to him, from left, are Scott Colloredo, deputy director of Engineering; Russ Deloach, director of Safety and Mission Assurance; and Andy Allen, program manager for Jacobs TOSC. A total of 21 umbilicals and launch accessories were tested on various simulators at the LETF before they were transferred to the mobile launcher for installation.
LETF Banner Event
Testing of the Orion Service Module Umbilical (OSMU) was completed at the Launch Equipment Test Facility at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The OSMU was attached to Vehicle Motion Simulator 1 for a series of simulated launch tests to validate it for installation on the mobile launcher. The test team gathered with a special banner during an event to mark the end of testing. The mobile launcher tower will be equipped with a number of lines, called umbilicals that will connect to the Space Launch System rocket and Orion spacecraft for Exploration Mission-1 (EM-1). The OSMU will be located high on the mobile launcher tower and, prior to launch, will transfer liquid coolant for the electronics and air for the Environmental Control System to the Orion service module that houses these critical systems to support the spacecraft. Kennedy's Engineering Directorate is providing support to the Ground Systems Development and Operations Program for testing of the OSMU. EM-1 is scheduled to launch in 2018.
Orion Service Module Umbilical (OSMU) Testing Complete
The team that tested the umbilical lines and accessories that will connect from the mobile launcher to NASA's Space Launch System rocket and Orion spacecraft for Exploration Mission-1 hold a banner signing event July 24, 2018, to mark completion of testing at the Launch Equipment Test Facility (LETF) at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. A total of 21 umbilicals and launch accessories were tested on various simulators at the LETF before they were transferred to the mobile launcher for installation.
LETF Banner Event
A crane is prepared to help lift the first Tail Service Mast Umbilical (TSMU) for NASA’s Space Launch System (SLS) at the Launch Equipment Test Facility (LETF) at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Two TSMUs will provide liquid propellants and power to the Space Launch System (SLS) rocket’s core stage engine. Both TSMUs will connect to the zero-level deck on the mobile launcher, providing fuel and electricity to the SLS rocket before it launches on Exploration Mission 1. The TSMU will undergo testing and validation at the LETF to verify it is functioning properly. The center’s Engineering Directorate and the Ground Systems Development and Operations Program are overseeing processing and testing of the umbilicals.
Tail Service Mast Umbilical Arrival
The first umbilical – one of many swing arms that will provide power, communications, and propellants to a larger configuration of NASA’s Space Launch System (SLS) rocket – for the agency’s mobile launcher 2 (ML2) arrives at the Launch Equipment Test Facility (LETF) at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida on Oct. 28, 2021. The umbilical will go through rounds of testing at the LETF to verify it functions properly before getting installed on the ML2 tower. This particular umbilical will provide propellants, environmental control systems, and a variety of purge gasses to the rocket’s Exploration Upper Stage. ML2 will be used to launch SLS Block 1B and Block 2 configurations to the Moon, starting with the Artemis IV mission, allowing NASA to send astronauts and heavy cargo to the lunar surface.
First Umbilical for ML2
A crane lifts the first Tail Service Mast Umbilical (TSMU) up for placement on a test stand at the Launch Equipment Test Facility at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Two TSMUs will provide liquid propellants and power to the Space Launch System (SLS) rocket’s core stage engine. Both TSMUs will connect to the zero-level deck on the mobile launcher, providing fuel and electricity to the SLS rocket before it launches on Exploration Mission 1. The TSMU will undergo testing and validation at the LETF to verify it is functioning properly. The center’s Engineering Directorate and the Ground Systems Development and Operations Program are overseeing processing and testing of the umbilicals.
Tail Service Mast Umbilical Arrival
The team that tested the umbilical lines and accessories that will connect from the mobile launcher to NASA's Space Launch System rocket and Orion spacecraft for Exploration Mission-1 hold a banner signing event July 24, 2018, to mark completion of testing at the Launch Equipment Test Facility (LETF) at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. A total of 21 umbilicals and launch accessories were tested on various simulators at the LETF before they were transferred to the mobile launcher for installation.
LETF Banner Event
Technicians assist as a crane is used to lift the first Tail Service Mast Umbilical (TSMU) away from the flatbed of the transport truck at the Launch Equipment Test Facility (LETF) at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Two TSMUs will provide liquid propellants and power to the Space Launch System (SLS) rocket’s core stage engine. Both TSMUs will connect to the zero-level deck on the mobile launcher, providing fuel and electricity to the SLS rocket before it launches on Exploration Mission 1. The TSMU will undergo testing and validation at the LETF to verify it is functioning properly. The center’s Engineering Directorate and the Ground Systems Development and Operations Program are overseeing processing and testing of the umbilicals.
Tail Service Mast Umbilical Arrival
A crane is used to lift the Core State Inter-tank Umbilical (CSITU) for NASA's Space Launch System (SLS) at the Launch Equipment Test Facility at the agency's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The CSITU will be attached to the "C" tower of the Vehicle Motion Simulator 2 test fixture. The umbilical will undergo a series of tests to confirm it is functioning properly and ready to support the SLS rocket for launch. The CSITU is a swing arm umbilical that will connect to the SLS core stage inter-tank. The umbilical's main function is to vent gaseous hydrogen from the core stage. The arm also provides conditioned air, pressurized gases, and power and data connection to the core stage. The center’s Engineering Directorate and the Ground Systems Development and Operations Program are overseeing processing and testing of the umbilicals.
Core Stage Inter-Tank Umbilical Installation
The team that tested the umbilical lines and accessories that will connect from the mobile launcher to NASA's Space Launch System rocket and Orion spacecraft for Exploration Mission-1 hold a banner signing event July 24, 2018, to mark completion of testing at the Launch Equipment Test Facility (LETF) at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Speaking at the event is Scott Colloredo, far right, deputy director of Engineering. Next to him, from left, are Shawn Quinn, director of Engineering. Russ Deloach, director of Safety and Mission Assurance; and Andy Allen, program manager for Jacobs TOSC. A total of 21 umbilicals and launch accessories were tested on various simulators at the LETF before they were transferred to the mobile launcher for installation.
LETF Banner Event
A crane is used to lift the Core State Inter-tank Umbilical (CSITU) for NASA's Space Launch System (SLS) at the Launch Equipment Test Facility at the agency's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The CSITU will be attached to the "C" tower of the Vehicle Motion Simulator 2 test fixture. The umbilical will undergo a series of tests to confirm it is functioning properly and ready to support the SLS rocket for launch. The CSITU is a swing arm umbilical that will connect to the SLS core stage inter-tank. The umbilical's main function is to vent gaseous hydrogen from the core stage. The arm also provides conditioned air, pressurized gases, and power and data connection to the core stage. The center’s Engineering Directorate and the Ground Systems Development and Operations Program are overseeing processing and testing of the umbilicals.
Core Stage Inter-Tank Umbilical Installation
A crane is used to lift the Core State Inter-tank Umbilical (CSITU) for NASA's Space Launch System (SLS) at the Launch Equipment Test Facility at the agency's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The CSITU will be attached to the "C" tower of the Vehicle Motion Simulator 2 test fixture. The umbilical will undergo a series of tests to confirm it is functioning properly and ready to support the SLS rocket for launch. The CSITU is a swing arm umbilical that will connect to the SLS core stage inter-tank. The umbilical's main function is to vent gaseous hydrogen from the core stage. The arm also provides conditioned air, pressurized gases, and power and data connection to the core stage. The center’s Engineering Directorate and the Ground Systems Development and Operations Program are overseeing processing and testing of the umbilicals.
Core Stage Inter-Tank Umbilical Installation
The test team holds a signed banner at the Launch Equipment Test Facility at Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Behind them are some of the test structures used to test the launch umbilicals. Testing of the Core Stage Forward Skirt Umbilical (CSFSU) for NASA's Space Launch System is complete and the umbilical has been transported to the mobile launcher area. The umbilical will be prepared for installation on the tower of the mobile launcher. The CSFSU will be mated to the core stage forward skirt to provide commodities to the SLS rocket, and then disconnect and swing away before launch. Its main purpose is to provide conditioned air and gaseous nitrogen to the SLS Core Stage Forward Skirt. The center’s Engineering Directorate and the Ground Systems Development and Operations Program are overseeing processing and testing of the umbilicals.
Core Stage Forward Skirt Umbilical (CSFSU) Testing Complete
Efforts are underway to lift the Core State Inter-tank Umbilical (CSITU) for NASA's Space Launch System (SLS) at the Launch Equipment Test Facility at the agency's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The CSITU will be attached to the "C" tower of the Vehicle Motion Simulator 2 test fixture. The umbilical will undergo a series of tests to confirm it is functioning properly and ready to support the SLS rocket for launch. The CSITU is a swing arm umbilical that will connect to the SLS core stage inter-tank. The umbilical's main function is to vent gaseous hydrogen from the core stage. The arm also provides conditioned air, pressurized gases, and power and data connection to the core stage. The center’s Engineering Directorate and the Ground Systems Development and Operations Program are overseeing processing and testing of the umbilicals.
Core Stage Inter-Tank Umbilical Installation
A heavy-lift transport truck arrives at the Launch Equipment Test Facility (LETF) at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, with the first of two Tail Service Mast Umbilicals (TSMU) for NASA’s Space Launch System (SLS). Two TSMUs will provide liquid propellants and power to the Space Launch System (SLS) rocket’s core stage engine. Both TSMUs will connect to the zero-level deck on the mobile launcher, providing fuel and electricity to the SLS rocket before it launches on Exploration Mission 1. The TSMU will undergo testing and validation at the LETF to verify it is functioning properly. The center’s Engineering Directorate and the Ground Systems Development and Operations Program are overseeing processing and testing of the umbilicals.
Tail Service Mast Umbilical Arrival
Testing of the Orion Service Module Umbilical (OSMU) was completed at the Launch Equipment Test Facility at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The OSMU was attached to Vehicle Motion Simulator 1 for a series of simulated launch tests to validate it for installation on the mobile launcher. One of the test team members signs a banner during an event to mark the end of testing. The mobile launcher tower will be equipped with a number of lines, called umbilicals that will connect to the Space Launch System rocket and Orion spacecraft for Exploration Mission-1 (EM-1). The OSMU will be located high on the mobile launcher tower and, prior to launch, will transfer liquid coolant for the electronics and air for the Environmental Control System to the Orion service module that houses these critical systems to support the spacecraft. Kennedy's Engineering Directorate is providing support to the Ground Systems Development and Operations Program for testing of the OSMU. EM-1 is scheduled to launch in 2018.
Orion Service Module Umbilical (OSMU) Testing Complete
A crane is used to lift the Core State Inter-tank Umbilical (CSITU) for NASA's Space Launch System (SLS) at the Launch Equipment Test Facility at the agency's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The CSITU will be attached to the "C" tower of the Vehicle Motion Simulator 2 test fixture. The umbilical will undergo a series of tests to confirm it is functioning properly and ready to support the SLS rocket for launch. The CSITU is a swing arm umbilical that will connect to the SLS core stage inter-tank. The umbilical's main function is to vent gaseous hydrogen from the core stage. The arm also provides conditioned air, pressurized gases, and power and data connection to the core stage. The center’s Engineering Directorate and the Ground Systems Development and Operations Program are overseeing processing and testing of the umbilicals.
Core Stage Inter-Tank Umbilical Installation
The team that tested the umbilical lines and accessories that will connect from the mobile launcher to NASA's Space Launch System rocket and Orion spacecraft for Exploration Mission-1 hold a banner signing event July 24, 2018, to mark completion of testing at the Launch Equipment Test Facility (LETF) at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. A total of 21 umbilicals and launch accessories were tested on various simulators at the LETF before they were transferred to the mobile launcher for installation.
LETF Banner Event
A crane is attached to the first Tail Service Mast Umbilical (TSMU) for NASA’s Space Launch System (SLS) at the Launch Equipment Test Facility at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Two TSMUs will provide liquid propellants and power to the Space Launch System (SLS) rocket’s core stage engine. Both TSMUs will connect to the zero-level deck on the mobile launcher, providing fuel and electricity to the SLS rocket before it launches on Exploration Mission 1. The TSMU will undergo testing and validation at the LETF to verify it is functioning properly. The center’s Engineering Directorate and the Ground Systems Development and Operations Program are overseeing processing and testing of the umbilicals.
Tail Service Mast Umbilical Arrival
A NASA engineer signs the banner inside a support building at the Launch Equipment Test Facility at Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Testing of the Core Stage Forward Skirt Umbilical (CSFSU) for NASA's Space Launch System is complete and the umbilical has been transported to the mobile launcher area. The umbilical will be prepared for installation on the tower of the mobile launcher. The CSFSU will be mated to the core stage forward skirt to provide commodities to the SLS rocket, and then disconnect and swing away before launch. Its main purpose is to provide conditioned air and gaseous nitrogen to the SLS Core Stage Forward Skirt. The center’s Engineering Directorate and the Ground Systems Development and Operations Program are overseeing processing and testing of the umbilicals.
Core Stage Forward Skirt Umbilical (CSFSU) Testing Complete
A crane moves the Core State Inter-tank Umbilical (CSITU) for NASA's Space Launch System (SLS) closer for attachment to the "C" tower of the Vehicle Motion Simulator 2 test fixture at the Launch Equipment Test Facility at the agency's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The umbilical will undergo a series of tests to confirm it is functioning properly and ready to support the SLS rocket for launch. The CSITU is a swing arm umbilical that will connect to the SLS core stage inter-tank. The umbilical's main function is to vent gaseous hydrogen from the core stage. The arm also provides conditioned air, pressurized gases, and power and data connection to the core stage. The center’s Engineering Directorate and the Ground Systems Development and Operations Program are overseeing processing and testing of the umbilicals.
Core Stage Inter-Tank Umbilical Installation
A view of one of the large test structures located at the Launch Equipment Test Facility (LETF) on Oct. 19, 2020, at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The LETF is a unique set of structures, equipment and tools built to test full-scale umbilicals and release mechanisms for the space shuttle. The facility also was used to test the umbilicals and other mechanisms for the mobile launcher. The mobile launcher will carry the Space Launch System and Orion spacecraft to Launch Pad 39B for Artemis I, a mission that will test the rocket and spacecraft as an integrated system ahead of crewed flights to the Moon. NASA will land the first woman and the next man on the Moon in 2024.
Engineering Labs: LETF
Testing of the Orion Service Module Umbilical (OSMU) was completed at the Launch Equipment Test Facility at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The OSMU was attached to Vehicle Motion Simulator 1 for a series of simulated launch tests to validate it for installation on the mobile launcher. The mobile launcher tower will be equipped with a number of lines, called umbilicals that will connect to the Space Launch System rocket and Orion spacecraft for Exploration Mission-1 (EM-1). The OSMU will be located high on the mobile launcher tower and, prior to launch, will transfer liquid coolant for the electronics and air for the Environmental Control System to the Orion service module that houses these critical systems to support the spacecraft. Kennedy's Engineering Directorate is providing support to the Ground Systems Development and Operations Program for testing of the OSMU. EM-1 is scheduled to launch in 2018.
Orion Service Module Umbilical (OSMU) Testing Complete
The Core State Inter-tank Umbilical (CSITU) for NASA's Space Launch System (SLS) arrives at the Launch Equipment Test Facility at the agency's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The CSITU will be attached to the "C" tower of the Vehicle Motion Simulator 2 test fixture. The umbilical will undergo a series of tests to confirm it is functioning properly and ready to support the SLS rocket for launch. The CSITU is a swing arm umbilical that will connect to the SLS core stage inter-tank. The umbilical's main function is to vent gaseous hydrogen from the core stage. The arm also provides conditioned air, pressurized gases, and power and data connection to the core stage. The center’s Engineering Directorate and the Ground Systems Development and Operations Program are overseeing processing and testing of the umbilicals.
Core Stage Inter-Tank Umbilical Installation
The team that tested the umbilical lines and accessories that will connect from the mobile launcher to NASA's Space Launch System rocket and Orion spacecraft for Exploration Mission-1 hold a banner signing event July 24, 2018, to mark completion of testing at the Launch Equipment Test Facility (LETF) at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Speaking at the event is Andy Allen, far right, program manager for Jacobs TOSC.  Next to him, from left, are Shawn Quinn, director of Engineering; Scott Colloredo, deputy director of Engineering; and Russ Deloach, director of Safety and Mission Assurance. A total of 21 umbilicals and launch accessories were tested on various simulators at the LETF before they were transferred to the mobile launcher for installation.
LETF Banner Event
The team that tested the umbilical lines and accessories that will connect from the mobile launcher to NASA's Space Launch System rocket and Orion spacecraft for Exploration Mission-1 hold a banner signing event July 24, 2018, to mark completion of testing at the Launch Equipment Test Facility (LETF) at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. A total of 21 umbilicals and launch accessories were tested on various simulators at the LETF before they were transferred to the mobile launcher for installation.
LETF Banner Event
Testing of the Orion Service Module Umbilical (OSMU) was completed at the Launch Equipment Test Facility at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The OSMU was attached to Vehicle Motion Simulator 1 for a series of simulated launch tests to validate it for installation on the mobile launcher. The test team signed a special banner during an event to mark the end of testing. The mobile launcher tower will be equipped with a number of lines, called umbilicals that will connect to the Space Launch System rocket and Orion spacecraft for Exploration Mission-1 (EM-1). The OSMU will be located high on the mobile launcher tower and, prior to launch, will transfer liquid coolant for the electronics and air for the Environmental Control System to the Orion service module that houses these critical systems to support the spacecraft. Kennedy's Engineering Directorate is providing support to the Ground Systems Development and Operations Program for testing of the OSMU. EM-1 is scheduled to launch in 2018.
Orion Service Module Umbilical (OSMU) Testing Complete
A crane lowers the first Tail Service Mast Umbilical (TSMU) onto a test stand at the Launch Equipment Test Facility at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Two TSMUs will provide liquid propellants and power to the Space Launch System (SLS) rocket’s core stage engine. Both TSMUs will connect to the zero-level deck on the mobile launcher, providing fuel and electricity to the SLS rocket before it launches on Exploration Mission 1. The TSMU will undergo testing and validation at the LETF to verify it is functioning properly. The center’s Engineering Directorate and the Ground Systems Development and Operations Program are overseeing processing and testing of the umbilicals.
Tail Service Mast Umbilical Arrival
Technicians assist as a crane is used to lift the first Tail Service Mast Umbilical (TSMU) into the vertical position at the Launch Equipment Test Facility (LETF) at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Two TSMUs will provide liquid propellants and power to the Space Launch System (SLS) rocket’s core stage engine. Both TSMUs will connect to the zero-level deck on the mobile launcher, providing fuel and electricity to the SLS rocket before it launches on Exploration Mission 1. The TSMU will undergo testing and validation at the LETF to verify it is functioning properly. The center’s Engineering Directorate and the Ground Systems Development and Operations Program are overseeing processing and testing of the umbilicals.
Tail Service Mast Umbilical Arrival
A NASA technician signs the banner inside a support building at the Launch Equipment Test Facility at Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Testing of the Core Stage Forward Skirt Umbilical (CSFSU) for NASA's Space Launch System is complete and the umbilical has been transported to the mobile launcher area. The umbilical will be prepared for installation on the tower of the mobile launcher. The CSFSU will be mated to the core stage forward skirt to provide commodities to the SLS rocket, and then disconnect and swing away before launch. Its main purpose is to provide conditioned air and gaseous nitrogen to the SLS Core Stage Forward Skirt. The center’s Engineering Directorate and the Ground Systems Development and Operations Program are overseeing processing and testing of the umbilicals.
Core Stage Forward Skirt Umbilical (CSFSU) Testing Complete
The Core State Inter-tank Umbilical (CSITU) for NASA's Space Launch System (SLS) is attached to the "C" tower of the Vehicle Motion Simulator 2 test fixture at the Launch Equipment Test Facility at the agency's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The umbilical will undergo a series of tests to confirm it is functioning properly and ready to support the SLS rocket for launch. The CSITU is a swing arm umbilical that will connect to the SLS core stage inter-tank. The umbilical's main function is to vent gaseous hydrogen from the core stage. The arm also provides conditioned air, pressurized gases, and power and data connection to the core stage. The center’s Engineering Directorate and the Ground Systems Development and Operations Program are overseeing processing and testing of the umbilicals.
Core Stage Inter-Tank Umbilical Installation
A crane moves the Core State Inter-tank Umbilical (CSITU) for NASA's Space Launch System (SLS) closer for attachment to the "C" tower of the Vehicle Motion Simulator 2 test fixture at the Launch Equipment Test Facility at the agency's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The umbilical will undergo a series of tests to confirm it is functioning properly and ready to support the SLS rocket for launch. The CSITU is a swing arm umbilical that will connect to the SLS core stage inter-tank. The umbilical's main function is to vent gaseous hydrogen from the core stage. The arm also provides conditioned air, pressurized gases, and power and data connection to the core stage. The center’s Engineering Directorate and the Ground Systems Development and Operations Program are overseeing processing and testing of the umbilicals.
Core Stage Inter-Tank Umbilical Installation
Technician monitors the progress as a crane lowers the first Tail Service Mast Umbilical (TSMU) onto a test stand at the Launch Equipment Test Facility at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Two TSMUs will provide liquid propellants and power to the Space Launch System (SLS) rocket’s core stage engine. Both TSMUs will connect to the zero-level deck on the mobile launcher, providing fuel and electricity to the SLS rocket before it launches on Exploration Mission 1. The TSMU will undergo testing and validation at the LETF to verify it is functioning properly. The center’s Engineering Directorate and the Ground Systems Development and Operations Program are overseeing processing and testing of the umbilicals.
Tail Service Mast Umbilical Arrival
Technicians assist as a crane is used to lift the first Tail Service Mast Umbilical (TSMU) up from the flatbed of the transport truck at the Launch Equipment Test Facility (LETF) at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Two TSMUs will provide liquid propellants and power to the Space Launch System (SLS) rocket’s core stage engine. Both TSMUs will connect to the zero-level deck on the mobile launcher, providing fuel and electricity to the SLS rocket before it launches on Exploration Mission 1. The TSMU will undergo testing and validation at the LETF to verify it is functioning properly. The center’s Engineering Directorate and the Ground Systems Development and Operations Program are overseeing processing and testing of the umbilicals.
Tail Service Mast Umbilical Arrival
Testing of the Orion Service Module Umbilical (OSMU) was completed at the Launch Equipment Test Facility at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The OSMU was attached to Vehicle Motion Simulator 1 for a series of simulated launch tests to validate it for installation on the mobile launcher. Patrick Simpkins, director of Engineering, speaks to the test team during an event to mark the end of testing. The mobile launcher tower will be equipped with a number of lines, called umbilicals that will connect to the Space Launch System rocket and Orion spacecraft for Exploration Mission-1 (EM-1). The OSMU will be located high on the mobile launcher tower and, prior to launch, will transfer liquid coolant for the electronics and air for the Environmental Control System to the Orion service module that houses these critical systems to support the spacecraft. Kennedy's Engineering Directorate is providing support to the Ground Systems Development and Operations Program for testing of the OSMU. EM-1 is scheduled to launch in 2018.
Orion Service Module Umbilical (OSMU) Testing Complete
An engineer reviews test data inside a control room at the Launch Equipment Test Facility (LETF) on Oct. 19, 2020, at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The LETF is a unique set of structures, equipment and tools built to test full-scale umbilicals and release mechanisms for the space shuttle. The facility also was used to test the umbilicals and other mechanisms for the mobile launcher. The mobile launcher will carry the Space Launch System and Orion spacecraft to Launch Pad 39B for Artemis I, a mission that will test the rocket and spacecraft as an integrated system ahead of crewed flights to the Moon. NASA will land the first woman and the next man on the Moon in 2024.
Engineering Labs: LETF
The team that tested the umbilical lines and accessories that will connect from the mobile launcher to NASA's Space Launch System rocket and Orion spacecraft for Exploration Mission-1 hold a banner signing event July 24, 2018, to mark completion of testing at the Launch Equipment Test Facility (LETF) at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Speaking at the event is Andy Allen, far right, program manager for Jacobs TOSC.  Next to him, from left, are Shawn Quinn, director of Engineering; Scott Colloredo, deputy director of Engineering; and Russ Deloach, director of Safety and Mission Assurance. A total of 21 umbilicals and launch accessories were tested on various simulators at the LETF before they were transferred to the mobile launcher for installation.
LETF Banner Event
The team that tested the umbilical lines and accessories that will connect from the mobile launcher to NASA's Space Launch System rocket and Orion spacecraft for Exploration Mission-1 hold a banner signing event July 24, 2018, to mark completion of testing at the Launch Equipment Test Facility (LETF) at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Attendees visit during the event. A total of 21 umbilicals and launch accessories were tested on various simulators at the LETF before they were transferred to the mobile launcher for installation.
LETF Banner Event
The team that tested the umbilical lines and accessories that will connect from the mobile launcher to NASA's Space Launch System rocket and Orion spacecraft for Exploration Mission-1 hold a banner signing event July 24, 2018, to mark completion of testing at the Launch Equipment Test Facility (LETF) at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Attending the event is Shawn Quinn, center, director of Engineering. A total of 21 umbilicals and launch accessories were tested on various simulators at the LETF before they were transferred to the mobile launcher for installation.
LETF Banner Event
Testing of the Orion Service Module Umbilical (OSMU) was completed at the Launch Equipment Test Facility at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The OSMU was attached to Vehicle Motion Simulator 1 for a series of simulated launch tests to validate it for installation on the mobile launcher. The test team gathered for an event to mark the end of testing. The mobile launcher tower will be equipped with a number of lines, called umbilicals that will connect to the Space Launch System rocket and Orion spacecraft for Exploration Mission-1 (EM-1). The OSMU will be located high on the mobile launcher tower and, prior to launch, will transfer liquid coolant for the electronics and air for the Environmental Control System to the Orion service module that houses these critical systems to support the spacecraft. Kennedy's Engineering Directorate is providing support to the Ground Systems Development and Operations Program for testing of the OSMU. EM-1 is scheduled to launch in 2018.
Orion Service Module Umbilical (OSMU) Testing Complete
The first umbilical – one of many swing arms that will provide power, communications, and propellants to a larger configuration of NASA’s Space Launch System (SLS) rocket – for the agency’s mobile launcher 2 (ML2) arrives at the Launch Equipment Test Facility (LETF) at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida on Oct. 28, 2021. The umbilical will go through rounds of testing at the LETF to verify it functions properly before getting installed on the ML2 tower. This particular umbilical will provide propellants, environmental control systems, and a variety of purge gasses to the rocket’s Exploration Upper Stage. ML2 will be used to launch SLS Block 1B and Block 2 configurations to the Moon, starting with the Artemis IV mission, allowing NASA to send astronauts and heavy cargo to the lunar surface.
First Umbilical for ML2
The team that tested the umbilical lines and accessories that will connect from the mobile launcher to NASA's Space Launch System rocket and Orion spacecraft for Exploration Mission-1 hold a banner signing event July 24, 2018, to mark completion of testing at the Launch Equipment Test Facility (LETF) at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Attending the event is Scott Colloredo, at right, deputy director of Engineering. A total of 21 umbilicals and launch accessories were tested on various simulators at the LETF before they were transferred to the mobile launcher for installation.
LETF Banner Event
Crews test temporary contingency access platforms on the mobile launcher simulator tower on Wednesday, Oct. 29, 2025, at the Launch Equipment Test Facility at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The platforms will allow engineers to access the vehicle’s flight termination system on the rocket and the mobile launcher while at the pad rather than rolling back to the Vehicle Assembly Building to retest them. For Artemis II, four astronauts will venture around the Moon in early 2026, the first crewed mission on NASA’s path to establishing a long-term presence for science and exploration through Artemis.
Artemis II: Contingency Access Platforms
Crews test temporary contingency access platforms on the mobile launcher simulator tower on Wednesday, Oct. 29, 2025, at the Launch Equipment Test Facility at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The platforms will allow engineers to access the vehicle’s flight termination system on the rocket and the mobile launcher while at the pad rather than rolling back to the Vehicle Assembly Building to retest them. For Artemis II, four astronauts will venture around the Moon in early 2026, the first crewed mission on NASA’s path to establishing a long-term presence for science and exploration through Artemis.
Artemis II: Contingency Access Platforms
Crews test temporary contingency access platforms on the mobile launcher simulator tower on Wednesday, Oct. 29, 2025, at the Launch Equipment Test Facility at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The platforms will allow engineers to access the vehicle’s flight termination system on the rocket and the mobile launcher while at the pad rather than rolling back to the Vehicle Assembly Building to retest them. For Artemis II, four astronauts will venture around the Moon in early 2026, the first crewed mission on NASA’s path to establishing a long-term presence for science and exploration through Artemis.
Artemis II: Contingency Access Platforms
Crews test temporary contingency access platforms on the mobile launcher simulator tower on Wednesday, Oct. 29, 2025, at the Launch Equipment Test Facility at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The platforms will allow engineers to access the vehicle’s flight termination system on the rocket and the mobile launcher while at the pad rather than rolling back to the Vehicle Assembly Building to retest them. For Artemis II, four astronauts will venture around the Moon in early 2026, the first crewed mission on NASA’s path to establishing a long-term presence for science and exploration through Artemis.
Artemis II: Contingency Access Platforms
Crews test temporary contingency access platforms on the mobile launcher simulator tower on Wednesday, Oct. 29, 2025, at the Launch Equipment Test Facility at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The platforms will allow engineers to access the vehicle’s flight termination system on the rocket and the mobile launcher while at the pad rather than rolling back to the Vehicle Assembly Building to retest them. For Artemis II, four astronauts will venture around the Moon in early 2026, the first crewed mission on NASA’s path to establishing a long-term presence for science and exploration through Artemis.
Artemis II: Contingency Access Platforms
Crews test temporary contingency access platforms on the mobile launcher simulator tower on Wednesday, Oct. 29, 2025, at the Launch Equipment Test Facility at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The platforms will allow engineers to access the vehicle’s flight termination system on the rocket and the mobile launcher while at the pad rather than rolling back to the Vehicle Assembly Building to retest them. For Artemis II, four astronauts will venture around the Moon in early 2026, the first crewed mission on NASA’s path to establishing a long-term presence for science and exploration through Artemis.
Artemis II: Contingency Access Platforms
Crews test temporary contingency access platforms on the mobile launcher simulator tower on Wednesday, Oct. 29, 2025, at the Launch Equipment Test Facility at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The platforms will allow engineers to access the vehicle’s flight termination system on the rocket and the mobile launcher while at the pad rather than rolling back to the Vehicle Assembly Building to retest them. For Artemis II, four astronauts will venture around the Moon in early 2026, the first crewed mission on NASA’s path to establishing a long-term presence for science and exploration through Artemis.
Artemis II: Contingency Access Platforms
Crews test temporary contingency access platforms on the mobile launcher simulator tower on Wednesday, Oct. 29, 2025, at the Launch Equipment Test Facility at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The platforms will allow engineers to access the vehicle’s flight termination system on the rocket and the mobile launcher while at the pad rather than rolling back to the Vehicle Assembly Building to retest them. For Artemis II, four astronauts will venture around the Moon in early 2026, the first crewed mission on NASA’s path to establishing a long-term presence for science and exploration through Artemis.
Artemis II: Contingency Access Platforms
Crews test temporary contingency access platforms on the mobile launcher simulator tower on Wednesday, Oct. 29, 2025, at the Launch Equipment Test Facility at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The platforms will allow engineers to access the vehicle’s flight termination system on the rocket and the mobile launcher while at the pad rather than rolling back to the Vehicle Assembly Building to retest them. For Artemis II, four astronauts will venture around the Moon in early 2026, the first crewed mission on NASA’s path to establishing a long-term presence for science and exploration through Artemis.
Artemis II: Contingency Access Platforms
The Artemis Orion crew module test article (CMTA) is in view in the high bay inside the Launch Equipment Test Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida on March 18, 2022. The CMTA is used to practice recovery after splashdown of the Orion spacecraft to prepare for Artemis missions. Exploration Ground Systems leads recovery efforts.
Artemis Recovery CMTA
The Artemis Orion crew module test article (CMTA) is in view in the high bay inside the Launch Equipment Test Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida on March 18, 2022. The CMTA is used to practice recovery after splashdown of the Orion spacecraft to prepare for Artemis missions. Exploration Ground Systems leads recovery efforts.
Artemis Recovery CMTA
Two seats for the Artemis Orion crew module test article (CMTA) are in view in the high bay inside the Launch Equipment Test Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida on March 18, 2022. The seats were built by the center’s Prototype Laboratory. The CMTA is used to practice recovery after splashdown of the Orion spacecraft to prepare for Artemis missions. Exploration Ground Systems leads recovery efforts.
Artemis Recovery CMTA
21st Century Ground System Tour
2011-7850
21st Century Ground System Tour
2011-7851
21st Century Ground System Tour
2011-7848
21st Century Ground System Tour
2011-7846
21st Century Ground System Tour
2011-7849
21st Century Ground System Tour
2011-7847