NASA Glenn’s Propulsion Systems Lab (PSL) is conducting research to characterize ice crystal clouds that can create a hazard to aircraft engines in certain conditions. With specialized equipment, scientists can create a simulated ice crystal cloud with the set of bars in the back spraying out a mist. The red area includes lasers, which measure the intensity of the cloud and a series of probes to measure everything from humidity to air pressure. The isokinetic probe (in gold) samples particles and the robotic arm (in orange) has a test tube on the end that catches ice particles for further measuring. NASA Glenn’s PSL is the only place in the world which can create these kind of ice crystal cloud conditions.
Propulsion Systems Lab
PROPULSION FLOW DYNAMICS
PROPULSION FLOW DYNAMICS
PROPULSION FLOW DYNAMICS
PROPULSION FLOW DYNAMICS
PROPULSION FLOW DYNAMICS
PROPULSION FLOW DYNAMICS
PROPULSION FLOW DYNAMICS
PROPULSION FLOW DYNAMICS
PROPULSION FLOW DYNAMICS
PROPULSION FLOW DYNAMICS
PROPULSION FLOW DYNAMICS
PROPULSION FLOW DYNAMICS
PROPULSION FLOW DYNAMICS
PROPULSION FLOW DYNAMICS
Technicians carefully install a piece of equipment to house Gateway’s xenon fuel tanks, part of its advanced electric propulsion system.
Gateway's Power and Propulsion Element Tops Off
The primary structure of Gateway’s Power and Propulsion Element (PPE) undergoing assembly, integration, and testing at Lanteris Space Systems in Palo Alto, California, on September 29, 2025. Credit: Lanteris Space Systems
Gateway's Power and Propulsion Element (jsc2025e087964)
U.S. Vice President Mike Pence, left, meets with JPL Director Michael Watkins during a tour of NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory, Saturday, April 28, 2018 in Pasadena, California. Photo Credit: (NASA/Bill Ingalls)
Vice President Pence Tours Jet Propulsion Laboratory
U.S. Vice President Mike Pence tours NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory, Saturday, April 28, 2018 in Pasadena, California. Photo Credit: (NASA/Bill Ingalls)
Vice President Pence Tours Jet Propulsion Laboratory
PROPULSION AND STRUCTURAL TEST FACILITY (BUILDING 4572) AT THE GEORGE C. MARSHALL SPACE FLIGHT CENTER IN HUNTSVILLE, ALABAMA
PROPULSION AND STRUCTURAL TEST FACILITY
PROPULSION AND STRUCTURAL TEST FACILITY (BUILDING 4572) AT THE GEORGE C. MARSHALL SPACE FLIGHT CENTER IN HUNTSVILLE, ALABAMA
PROPULSION AND STRUCTURAL TEST FACILITY
PROPULSION AND STRUCTURAL TEST FACILITY (BUILDING 4572) AT THE GEORGE C. MARSHALL SPACE FLIGHT CENTER IN HUNTSVILLE, ALABAMA
PROPULSION AND STRUCTURAL TEST FACILITY
PROPULSION AND STRUCTURAL TEST FACILITY (BUILDING 4572) AT THE GEORGE C. MARSHALL SPACE FLIGHT CENTER IN HUNTSVILLE, ALABAMA
PROPULSION AND STRUCTURAL TEST FACILITY
PROPULSION AND STRUCTURAL TEST FACILITY (BUILDING 4572) AT THE GEORGE C. MARSHALL SPACE FLIGHT CENTER IN HUNTSVILLE, ALABAMA
PROPULSION AND STRUCTURAL TEST FACILITY
U.S. Vice President Mike Pence is given instructions on how to drive a rover nicknamed "Scarecrow" by JPL Director Michael Watkins at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory Mars Yard, Saturday, April 28, 2018 in Pasadena, California. Scarecrow is used to test mobility of rovers on Mars. Photo Credit: (NASA/Bill Ingalls)
Vice President Pence Tours Jet Propulsion Laboratory
U.S. Vice President Mike Pence turns and talks with Executive Director of the National Space Council Scott Pace during a tour of NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory, Saturday, April 28, 2018 in Pasadena, California. Photo Credit: (NASA/Bill Ingalls)
Vice President Pence Tours Jet Propulsion Laboratory
JPL Director Michael Watkins, standing, explains the history of NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory and the use of the Mission Support Area to Vice President Mike Pence during a tour of JPL, Saturday, April 28, 2018 in Pasadena, California. Photo Credit: (NASA/Bill Ingalls)
Vice President Pence Tours Jet Propulsion Laboratory
U.S. Vice President Mike Pence, right, is presented a plaque by JPL Director Michael Watkins during a tour of NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory, Saturday, April 28, 2018 in Pasadena, California. The plaque presents a view of the Mars Science Laboratory rover Curiosity on the surface of Mars. Photo Credit: (NASA/Bill Ingalls)
Vice President Pence Tours Jet Propulsion Laboratory
Propulsion Lead Rebekah Lam participates in Perseverance's second trajectory correction maneuver at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Southern California.  https://photojournal.jpl.nasa.gov/catalog/PIA24194
Propulsion Lead Checks the Tanks
U.S. Vice President Mike Pence, 2nd from left, his wife Karen, and daughter Charlotte are given a tour of NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory by JPL Director Michael Watkins, Saturday, April 28, 2018 in Pasadena, California. Photo Credit: (NASA/Bill Ingalls)
Vice President Pence Tours Jet Propulsion Laboratory
JPL Director Michael Watkins, standing, explains the history of NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory and the use of the Mission Support Area to Vice President Mike Pence, right, and Executive Director of the National Space Council Scott Pace during a tour of JPL, Saturday, April 28, 2018 in Pasadena, California. Photo Credit: (NASA/Bill Ingalls)
Vice President Pence Tours Jet Propulsion Laboratory
NASA Glenn Research Center has received the first of three Advanced Electric Propulsion System (AEPS) thrusters for the Gateway lunar space station. Built by L3Harris Technologies, the thruster will undergo testing before integration with Gateway’s Power and Propulsion Element, launching with the HALO module ahead of Artemis IV.
Gateway Hardware Milestone: First AEPS Thruster for Power and Propulsion Element Delivered to NASA Glenn (GRC-2025-C-01673)
Technicians at Lanteris Space Systems in Palo Alto, California, remove the first of three Advanced Electric Propulsion System (AEPS) flight thrusters from its transport container following delivery from NASA’s Glenn Research Center. The thruster previously completed acceptance testing at Glenn and will be prepared for integration with Gateway’s Power and Propulsion Element (PPE). Credit: Lanteris Space Systems
Gateway's AEPS Thruster Arrives for Integration with Power and Propulsion Element (jsc2025e073413)
U.S. Vice President Mike Pence, his wife Karen, and their daughter Charlotte shake hands with Mars Curiosity Mission ACE Walt Hoffman, right, during a tour of NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory, Saturday, April 28, 2018 in Pasadena, California.  Photo Credit: (NASA/Bill Ingalls)
Vice President Pence Tours Jet Propulsion Laboratory
JPL Director Michael Watkins, left, explains to U.S. Vice President Mike Pence, daughter of Mike Pence, Charlotte Pence, and wife of Mike Pence, Karen Pence the progress for the Mars 2020 mission while inside the Spacecraft Assembly Facility (SAF) during a tour of NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory, Saturday, April 28, 2018 in Pasadena, California. Photo Credit: (NASA/Bill Ingalls)
Vice President Pence Tours Jet Propulsion Laboratory
TWO CRANES LIFT THE APPROXIMATELY 8,000-POUND INTERIM CRYOGENIC PROPULSION STAGE TEST ARTICLE OUT OF ITS CRATE AT MARSHALL.
INTERIM CRYOGENIC PROPULSION STAGE TEST ARTICLE
JONATHAN LOOSER, SLS CORE STAGE PROPULSION LEAD AT NASA’S MARSHALL SPACE FLIGHT CENTER IN HUNTSVILLE, ALABAMA
JONATHAN LOOSER, SLS CORE STAGE PROPULSION LEAD
BRUCE WIEGMANN, AN ENGINEER AT NASA'S MARSHALL SPACE FLIGHT CENTER IN HUNTSVILLE, ALABAMA, EXAMINES A HAIR-THIN TETHER THAT WILL BE PART OF AN ELECTROSTATIC PROPULSION SYSTEM THAT COULD SEND SPACECRAFT ON INTERSTELLAR MISSIONS.
Bruce Wiegman with a tether for the Electostatic Propulsion System.
U.S. Vice President Mike Pence can be seen with his wife Karen Pence as they toured NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory, Saturday, April 28, 2018 in Pasadena, California. The vice President was also joined by his daughter Charlotte Pence, JPL Distinguished Visiting Scientist and Spouse of UAG Chairman James Ellis, Elisabeth Pate-Cornell , UAG Chairman, Admiral (Ret) James Ellis , Executive Director of the National Space Council Scott Pace, JPL Deputy Director Lt. Gen. (Ret) Larry James, and California Institute of Technology President Thomas Rosenbaum. Photo Credit: (NASA/Bill Ingalls)
Vice President Pence Tours Jet Propulsion Laboratory
NASA Glenn Research Center has received the first of three Advanced Electric Propulsion System (AEPS) thrusters for the Gateway lunar space station. Built by L3Harris Technologies, the thruster will undergo testing before integration with Gateway’s Power and Propulsion Element, launching with the HALO module ahead of Artemis IV.
Gateway Hardware Milestone: First AEPS Thruster for Power and Propulsion Element Delivered to NASA Glenn (GRC-2025-C-01694)
U.S. Vice President Mike Pence, right, is shown the Mars 2020 spacecraft descent stage from inside the Spacecraft Assembly Facility (SAF) by JPL Director Michael Watkins, left, and NASA Mars Exploration Manager Li Fuk at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory, Saturday, April 28, 2018 in Pasadena, California. Mars 2020 is a Mars rover mission by NASA's Mars Exploration Program with a planned launch in 2020. Photo Credit: (NASA/Bill Ingalls)
Vice President Pence Tours Jet Propulsion Laboratory
U.S. Vice President Mike Pence, left, thanks JPL Deputy Director Lt. Gen. (Ret) Larry James, JPL Director Michael Watkins, JPL Distinguished Visiting Scientist and Spouse of UAG Chairman James Ellis, Elisabeth Pate-Cornell , UAG Chairman, Admiral (Ret) James Ellis , and California Institute of Technology President Thomas Rosenbaum, right, for giving him a tour of NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory, Saturday, April 28, 2018 in Pasadena, California. Photo Credit: (NASA/Bill Ingalls)
Vice President Pence Tours Jet Propulsion Laboratory
U.S. Vice President Mike Pence, his wife Karen, and their daughter Charlotte are shown how to send a command to the Curiosity rover on Mars by Mars Curiosity Mission ACE Walt Hoffman during a tour of NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory, Saturday, April 28, 2018 in Pasadena, California. Hoffman asked Charlotte Pence if she would do the honors of sending the command to the rover.  Photo Credit: (NASA/Bill Ingalls)
Vice President Pence Tours Jet Propulsion Laboratory
U.S. Vice President Mike Pence, 2nd from right, is shown the Mars 2020 spacecraft descent stage from inside the Spacecraft Assembly Facility (SAF) by JPL Director Michael Watkins, to the Vice President's left, and NASA Mars Exploration Manager Li Fuk at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory, Saturday, April 28, 2018 in Pasadena, California. Mars 2020 is a Mars rover mission by NASA's Mars Exploration Program with a planned launch in 2020. Photo Credit: (NASA/Bill Ingalls)
Vice President Pence Tours Jet Propulsion Laboratory
U.S. Vice President Mike Pence, 3rd from left, his wife Karen, and their daughter Charlotte meet with JPL Director Michael Watkins, and Mars Curiosity Mission ACE Walt Hoffman, right, during a tour of NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory, Saturday, April 28, 2018 in Pasadena, California.  Photo Credit: (NASA/Bill Ingalls)
Vice President Pence Tours Jet Propulsion Laboratory
Technicians at Lanteris Space Systems in Palo Alto, California, remove the first of three Advanced Electric Propulsion System (AEPS) flight thrusters from its transport container following delivery from NASA’s Glenn Research Center. The thruster previously completed acceptance testing at Glenn and will be prepared for integration with Gateway’s Power and Propulsion Element (PPE).
Gayteway's AEPS Thruster Arrives for Integration with Power and Propulsion Element (jsc2025e073415)
Gateway’s Power and Propulsion Element (PPE) undergoes battery installations at Lanteris Space Systems in Palo Alto, California, in January 2026. PPE is a 60-kilowatt solar electric propulsion spacecraft that will supply the lunar space station with power, high-rate communications, attitude control, orbit maintenance, and orbit transfer capabilities. Its design is based on Lanteris Space Systems’ commercial 1300 bus, enhanced with the most powerful Advanced Electric Propulsion System (AEPS) thrusters and the largest roll-out solar arrays (ROSAs) ever developed. Lanteris Space Systems is the lead industry partner for PPE’s design, manufacturing, and integration.
Gateway’s Power and Propulsion Element Undergoes Battery Installations jsc2026e005277
Gateway’s Power and Propulsion Element (PPE) undergoes flight software uploads at Lanteris Space Systems in Palo Alto, California, in January 2026. PPE is a 60-kilowatt solar electric propulsion spacecraft that will supply the lunar space station with power, high-rate communications, attitude control, orbit maintenance, and orbit transfer capabilities. Its design is based on Lanteris Space Systems’ commercial 1300 bus, enhanced with the most powerful Advanced Electric Propulsion System (AEPS) thrusters and the largest roll-out solar arrays (ROSAs) ever developed. Lanteris Space Systems is the lead industry partner for PPE’s design, manufacturing, and integration.
Gateway’s Power and Propulsion Element Undergoes Flight Software Uploads jsc2026e005279
Gateway’s Power and Propulsion Element (PPE) undergoes battery installations at Lanteris Space Systems in Palo Alto, California, in January 2026. PPE is a 60-kilowatt solar electric propulsion spacecraft that will supply the lunar space station with power, high-rate communications, attitude control, orbit maintenance, and orbit transfer capabilities. Its design is based on Lanteris Space Systems’ commercial 1300 bus, enhanced with the most powerful Advanced Electric Propulsion System (AEPS) thrusters and the largest roll-out solar arrays (ROSAs) ever developed. Lanteris Space Systems is the lead industry partner for PPE’s design, manufacturing, and integration.
Gateway’s Power and Propulsion Element Undergoes Battery Installations jsc2026e005278
The Aero-Acoustic Propulsion Laboratory (AAPL) photographed on October 24, 2024 as seen from above.  This facility provides world class testing for aircraft propulsion acoustic noise reduction and is 65 ft high by 130 ft in diameter. Photo Credit: (NASA/Sara Lowthian-Hanna)
Aero-Acoustic Propulsion Laboratory (AAPL)
NASA Glenn Research Center has received the first of three Advanced Electric Propulsion System (AEPS) thrusters for the Gateway lunar space station. Built by L3Harris Technologies, the thruster will undergo testing before integration with Gateway’s Power and Propulsion Element, launching with the HALO module ahead of Artemis IV.
Gateway Hardware Milestone: First AEPS Thruster for Power and Propulsion Element Delivered to NASA Glenn (GRC-2025-C-01660)
F-15 Propulsion Controlled Aircraft (PCA) simulation cockpit
F-15 PCA (Propulsion Controlled Aircraft) simulation cockpit
U.S. Vice President Mike Pence, 3rd from right, tours NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory along with his wife Karen, and daughter Charlotte, Saturday, April 28, 2018 in Pasadena, California. Joining the Vice President t and his family on the tour are: UAG Chairman, Admiral (Ret) James Ellis , left, JPL Distinguished Visiting Scientist and Spouse of UAG Chairman James Ellis, Elisabeth Pate-Cornell, behind Mrs. Pence, California Institute of Technology President Thomas Rosenbaum, JPL Director Michael Watkins, and JPL Deputy Director Lt. Gen. (Ret) Larry James, right. Photo Credit: (NASA/Bill Ingalls)
Vice President Pence Tours Jet Propulsion Laboratory
JPL Director Michael Watkins, standing, explains the history of NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory and the use of the Mission Support Area to Vice President Mike Pence, seated next to his wife Karen and daughter Charlotte Pence, during a tour of JPL, Saturday, April 28, 2018 in Pasadena, California. Joining the Vice President was, JPL Distinguished Visiting Scientist and Spouse of UAG Chairman James Ellis, Elisabeth Pate-Cornell, left, UAG Chairman, Admiral (Ret) James Ellis, JPL Deputy Director Lt. Gen. (Ret) Larry James, and California Institute of Technology President Thomas Rosenbaum. Photo Credit: (NASA/Bill Ingalls)
Vice President Pence Tours Jet Propulsion Laboratory
U.S. Vice President Mike Pence, 2nd from left, poses for a group photograph with JPL Director Michael Watkins, left, JPL Deputy Director Lt. Gen. (Ret) Larry James, California Institute of Technology President Thomas Rosenbaum, JPL Distinguished Visiting Scientist and Spouse of UAG Chairman James Ellis, Elisabeth Pate-Cornell, and UAG Chairman, Admiral (Ret) James Ellis, right, after having toured NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory, Saturday, April 28, 2018 in Pasadena, California. Photo Credit: (NASA/Bill Ingalls)
Vice President Pence Tours Jet Propulsion Laboratory
APOLLO CONTOUR ENGINE MOUNTED IN THE PROPULSION SYSTEMS LABORATORY PSL NO. 2 TEST CELL
APOLLO CONTOUR ENGINE MOUNTED IN THE PROPULSION SYSTEMS LABORATO
APOLLO CONTOUR ENGINE MOUNTED IN THE PROPULSION SYSTEMS LABORATORY PSL NO. 2 TEST CELL
APOLLO CONTOUR ENGINE MOUNTED IN THE PROPULSION SYSTEMS LABORATO
During this Engineering Qualification Module test, the gimbal platforms for the Busek-built BHT-6000 Hall effect thrusters are exercised through their full range of motion to verify articulation performance and confirm the system can properly steer thrust once integrated with Gateway’s Power and Propulsion Element (PPE).  On PPE, four BHT-6000 Hall effect thrusters and three Advanced Electric Propulsion System (AEPS) thrusters will use solar power generated by Gateway’s Roll-Out Solar Arrays (ROSAs) to ionize xenon gas. The resulting xenon ions are then accelerated to extremely high speeds and expelled from the thrusters, creating a steady and highly efficient stream of thrust. This propulsion system will enable the Gateway lunar space station to maneuver and maintain its orbit around the Moon.
Thruster Gimbal Range of Motion Testing for Gateway’s Power and Propulsion Element jsc2026e005280
During this Engineering Qualification Module test, the gimbal platforms for the Busek-built BHT-6000 Hall effect thrusters are exercised through their full range of motion to verify articulation performance and confirm the system can properly steer thrust once integrated with Gateway’s Power and Propulsion Element (PPE).  On PPE, four BHT-6000 Hall effect thrusters and three Advanced Electric Propulsion System (AEPS) thrusters will use solar power generated by Gateway’s Roll-Out Solar Arrays (ROSAs) to ionize xenon gas. The resulting xenon ions are then accelerated to extremely high speeds and expelled from the thrusters, creating a steady and highly efficient stream of thrust. This propulsion system will enable the Gateway lunar space station to maneuver and maintain its orbit around the Moon.
Thruster Gimbal Range of Motion Testing for Gateway’s Power and Propulsion Element jsc2026e005281
During this Engineering Qualification Module test, the gimbal platforms for the Busek-built BHT-6000 Hall effect thrusters are exercised through their full range of motion to verify articulation performance and confirm the system can properly steer thrust once integrated with Gateway’s Power and Propulsion Element (PPE).  On PPE, four BHT-6000 Hall effect thrusters and three Advanced Electric Propulsion System (AEPS) thrusters will use solar power generated by Gateway’s Roll-Out Solar Arrays (ROSAs) to ionize xenon gas. The resulting xenon ions are then accelerated to extremely high speeds and expelled from the thrusters, creating a steady and highly efficient stream of thrust. This propulsion system will enable the Gateway lunar space station to maneuver and maintain its orbit around the Moon.
Thruster Gimbal Range of Motion Testing for Gateway’s Power and Propulsion Element jsc2026e005282
NASA Glenn Research Center has received the first of three Advanced Electric Propulsion System (AEPS) thrusters for the Gateway lunar space station. Built by L3Harris Technologies, the thruster will undergo testing before integration with Gateway’s Power and Propulsion Element, launching with the HALO module ahead of Artemis IV.
Gateway Hardware Milestone: First AEPS Thruster for Power and Propulsion Element Delivered to NASA Glenn (GRC-2025-C-01680)
SLS INTERIM CRYOGENIC PROPULSION STAGE TEST ARTICLE ARRIVES AT WEST DOCK ON SHIELDS ROAD AND IS OFF LOADED FROM BARGE
SLS INTERIM CRYOGENIC PROPULSION STAGE TEST ARTICLE ARRIVAL
SLS INTERIM CRYOGENIC PROPULSION STAGE TEST ARTICLE ARRIVES AT WEST DOCK ON SHIELDS ROAD AND IS OFF LOADED FROM BARGE
SLS INTERIM CRYOGENIC PROPULSION STAGE TEST ARTICLE ARRIVAL
SLS INTERIM CRYOGENIC PROPULSION STAGE TEST ARTICLE ARRIVES AT WEST DOCK ON SHIELDS ROAD AND IS OFF LOADED FROM BARGE
SLS INTERIM CRYOGENIC PROPULSION STAGE TEST ARTICLE ARRIVAL
SLS INTERIM CRYOGENIC PROPULSION STAGE TEST ARTICLE ARRIVES AT WEST DOCK ON SHIELDS ROAD AND IS OFF LOADED FROM BARGE
SLS INTERIM CRYOGENIC PROPULSION STAGE TEST ARTICLE ARRIVAL
SLS INTERIM CRYOGENIC PROPULSION STAGE TEST ARTICLE ARRIVES AT WEST DOCK ON SHIELDS ROAD AND IS OFF LOADED FROM BARGE
SLS INTERIM CRYOGENIC PROPULSION STAGE TEST ARTICLE ARRIVAL
SLS INTERIM CRYOGENIC PROPULSION STAGE TEST ARTICLE ARRIVES AT WEST DOCK ON SHIELDS ROAD AND IS OFF LOADED FROM BARGE
SLS INTERIM CRYOGENIC PROPULSION STAGE TEST ARTICLE ARRIVAL
SLS INTERIM CRYOGENIC PROPULSION STAGE TEST ARTICLE ARRIVES AT WEST DOCK ON SHIELDS ROAD AND IS OFF LOADED FROM BARGE
SLS INTERIM CRYOGENIC PROPULSION STAGE TEST ARTICLE ARRIVAL
SLS INTERIM CRYOGENIC PROPULSION STAGE TEST ARTICLE ARRIVES AT WEST DOCK ON SHIELDS ROAD AND IS OFF LOADED FROM BARGE
SLS INTERIM CRYOGENIC PROPULSION STAGE TEST ARTICLE ARRIVAL
SLS INTERIM CRYOGENIC PROPULSION STAGE TEST ARTICLE ARRIVES AT WEST DOCK ON SHIELDS ROAD AND IS OFF LOADED FROM BARGE
SLS INTERIM CRYOGENIC PROPULSION STAGE TEST ARTICLE ARRIVAL
SLS INTERIM CRYOGENIC PROPULSION STAGE TEST ARTICLE ARRIVES AT WEST DOCK ON SHIELDS ROAD AND IS OFF LOADED FROM BARGE
SLS INTERIM CRYOGENIC PROPULSION STAGE TEST ARTICLE ARRIVAL
Propulsion Systems Laboratory, PSL Fundamental Aero Test
Propulsion Systems Laboratory, PSL Fundamental Aero Test
JPL Director Michael Watkins, left, explains the history of NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory and the use of the Mission Support Area to Vice President Mike Pence, seated 4th from left, during a tour of JPL, Saturday, April 28, 2018 in Pasadena, California. Joining the Vice President was, JPL Distinguished Visiting Scientist and Spouse of UAG Chairman James Ellis, Elisabeth Pate-Cornell, left, UAG Chairman, Admiral (Ret) James Ellis, Executive Director of the National Space Council Scott Pace, wife of Mike Pence, Karen Pence, daughter of Mike Pence, Charlotte Pence, and JPL Deputy Director Lt. Gen. (Ret) Larry James. Photo Credit: (NASA/Bill Ingalls)
Vice President Pence Tours Jet Propulsion Laboratory
U.S. Vice President Mike Pence, 5th from left, joined by his wife Karen Pence, left, and daughter Charlotte Pence. 2nd from left, view the Vehicle System Test Bed (VSTB) rover in the Mars Yard during a tour of NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory, Saturday, April 28, 2018 in Pasadena, California. NASA Mars Exploration Manager Li Fuk, 2nd from left, JPL Director Michael Watkins, Mars Curiosity Engineering Operations Team Chief Megan Lin, and MSL Engineer Sean McGill, right, helped explain to the Vice President and his family how they use these test rovers. Photo Credit: (NASA/Bill Ingalls)
Vice President Pence Tours Jet Propulsion Laboratory
NASA Glenn Research Center has received the first of three Advanced Electric Propulsion System (AEPS) thrusters for the Gateway lunar space station. Built by L3Harris Technologies, the thruster will undergo testing before integration with Gateway’s Power and Propulsion Element, launching with the HALO module ahead of Artemis IV.
Gateway Hardware Milestone: First AEPS Thruster for Power and Propulsion Element Delivered to NASA Glenn (GRC-2025-C-01683)
NASA Glenn Research Center has received the first of three Advanced Electric Propulsion System (AEPS) thrusters for the Gateway lunar space station. Built by L3Harris Technologies, the thruster will undergo testing before integration with Gateway’s Power and Propulsion Element, launching with the HALO module ahead of Artemis IV.
Gateway Hardware Milestone: First AEPS Thruster for Power and Propulsion Element Delivered to NASA Glenn (GRC-2025-C-01653)
Advanced Electric Propulsion Systems Contract, Technology Demonstration Unit, TDU-3 Checkout Test Hardware Installed in Vacuum Facility 5, VF-5
Advanced Electric Propulsion Systems Contract, Technology Dem...
Advanced Electric Propulsion Systems Contract, Technology Demonstration Unit, TDU-3 Checkout Test Hardware Installed in Vacuum Facility 5, VF-5
Advanced Electric Propulsion Systems Contract, Technology Dem...
Advanced Electric Propulsion Systems Contract, Technology Demonstration Unit, TDU-3 Checkout Test Hardware Installed in Vacuum Facility 5, VF-5
Advanced Electric Propulsion Systems Contract, Technology Dem...
Advanced Electric Propulsion Systems Contract, Technology Demonstration Unit, TDU-3 Checkout Test Hardware Installed in Vacuum Facility 5, VF-5
Advanced Electric Propulsion Systems Contract, Technology Dem...
Advanced Electric Propulsion Systems Contract, Technology Demonstration Unit, TDU-3 Checkout Test Hardware Installed in Vacuum Facility 5, VF-5
Advanced Electric Propulsion Systems Contract, Technology Dem...
APOLLO CONTOUR ENGINE MOUNTED IN THE PROPULSION SYSTEMS LABORATORY PSL NO. 2 TEST CELL
APOLLO CONTOUR ENGINE MOUNTED IN THE PROPULSION SYSTEMS LABORATO
NASA Glenn Research Center has received the first of three Advanced Electric Propulsion System (AEPS) thrusters for the Gateway lunar space station. Built by L3Harris Technologies, the thruster will undergo testing before integration with Gateway’s Power and Propulsion Element, launching with the HALO module ahead of Artemis IV.
Gateway Hardware Milestone: First AEPS Thruster for Power and Propulsion Element Delivered to NASA Glenn (GRC-2025-C-01644)
NASA Glenn Research Center has received the first of three Advanced Electric Propulsion System (AEPS) thrusters for the Gateway lunar space station. Built by L3Harris Technologies, the thruster will undergo testing before integration with Gateway’s Power and Propulsion Element, launching with the HALO module ahead of Artemis IV.
Gateway Hardware Milestone: First AEPS Thruster for Power and Propulsion Element Delivered to NASA Glenn (GRC-2025-C-01209)
SATURN S-1B STAGE (SA-T) WITH PROPULSION AND STRUCTURAL TEST FACILITY (BUILDING 4572) IN BACKGROUND
SATURN S-1B STAGE (SA-T) WITH PROPULSION AND STRUCTURAL TEST FAC
Assembly began April 1, 2010, for NASA Juno spacecraft. Workers at Lockheed Martin Space Systems in Denver, Colorado workers are readying the spacecraft propulsion module.
Readying Juno Propulsion Module
Photo of NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory nestled in the Pasadena, Calif. hillside, taken in January, 2016.
Jet Propulsion Laboratory Nestled in Hillside
PROPULSION AND STRUCTURAL TEST FACILITY (BUILDING 4572) AT THE GEORGE C. MARSHALL SPACE FLIGHT CENTER IN HUNTSVILLE, ALABAMA WITH THE SATURN S-1B STAGE (SA-) IN FOREGROUND
SATURN S-1B STAGE (SA-T) WITH PROPULSION AND STRUCTURAL TEST FAC
The propulsion module for NASA's Europa Clipper, the main body of the spacecraft, is nearing completion at Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) in Laurel, Maryland. The module consists of two stacked cylinders that stand almost 10 feet (3 meters) high and hold the propulsion tanks and rocket engines that will adjust and change Europa Clipper's trajectory once it leaves Earth's atmosphere on its path toward Jupiter's icy moon Europa.  The propulsion module will be shipped to NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Southern California this spring.  With an internal global ocean under a thick layer of ice, Jupiter's moon Europa may have the potential to harbor existing life. Europa Clipper will swoop around Jupiter in an elliptical orbit, dipping close to the moon on each flyby to collect data. Understanding Europa's habitability will help scientists better understand how life developed on Earth and the potential for finding life beyond our planet. Europa Clipper is set to launch in 2024.   https://photojournal.jpl.nasa.gov/catalog/PIA24900
Europa Clipper's Propulsion Module
TWO CRANES LIFT THE APPROXIMATELY 8,000-POUND INTERIM CRYOGENIC PROPULSION STAGE TEST ARTICLE OUT OF ITS CRATE AT MARSHALL. THE TEST ARTICLE ARRIVED AT MARSHALL SPACE FLIGHT CENTER VIA BARGE ON THE TENNESSEE RIVER AND WAS TRANSPORTED TO BUILDING 4649 WHERE TESTING WILL BEGIN.
INTERIM CRYOGENIC PROPULSION STAGE TEST ARTICLE UNLOADED PRIOR T
TWO CRANES LIFT THE APPROXIMATELY 8,000-POUND INTERIM CRYOGENIC PROPULSION STAGE TEST ARTICLE OUT OF ITS CRATE AT MARSHALL. THE TEST ARTICLE ARRIVED AT MARSHALL SPACE FLIGHT CENTER VIA BARGE ON THE TENNESSEE RIVER AND WAS TRANSPORTED TO BUILDING 4649 WHERE TESTING WILL BEGIN.
INTERIM CRYOGENIC PROPULSION STAGE TEST ARTICLE UNLOADED PRIOR T
TWO CRANES LIFT THE APPROXIMATELY 8,000-POUND INTERIM CRYOGENIC PROPULSION STAGE TEST ARTICLE OUT OF ITS CRATE AT MARSHALL. THE TEST ARTICLE ARRIVED AT MARSHALL SPACE FLIGHT CENTER VIA BARGE ON THE TENNESSEE RIVER AND WAS TRANSPORTED TO BUILDING 4649 WHERE TESTING WILL BEGIN.
INTERIM CRYOGENIC PROPULSION STAGE TEST ARTICLE UNLOADED PRIOR T
TWO CRANES LIFT THE APPROXIMATELY 8,000-POUND INTERIM CRYOGENIC PROPULSION STAGE TEST ARTICLE OUT OF ITS CRATE AT MARSHALL. THE TEST ARTICLE ARRIVED AT MARSHALL SPACE FLIGHT CENTER VIA BARGE ON THE TENNESSEE RIVER AND WAS TRANSPORTED TO BUILDING 4649 WHERE TESTING WILL BEGIN.
INTERIM CRYOGENIC PROPULSION STAGE TEST ARTICLE UNLOADED PRIOR T
SLS INTERIM CRYOGENIC PROPULSION STAGE TEST ARTICLE ARRIVES AT WEST DOCK ON SHIELDS ROAD AND IS OFF LOADED FROM BARGEUAH ENGINEERING STUDENT ROBERT HILLAN TALKS TO SPACE STATION CREW MEMBERS ABOUT HIS WINNING 3-D PRINTED TOOL DESIGNED FOR USE ON ISS, AND IS INTERVIEWED BY LOCAL MEDIA
SLS INTERIM CRYOGENIC PROPULSION STAGE TEST ARTICLE ARRIVAL
TWO CRANES LIFT THE APPROXIMATELY 8,000-POUND INTERIM CRYOGENIC PROPULSION STAGE TEST ARTICLE OUT OF ITS CRATE AT MARSHALL. THE TEST ARTICLE ARRIVED AT MARSHALL SPACE FLIGHT CENTER VIA BARGE ON THE TENNESSEE RIVER AND WAS TRANSPORTED TO BUILDING 4649 WHERE TESTING WILL BEGIN.
INTERIM CRYOGENIC PROPULSION STAGE TEST ARTICLE UNLOADED PRIOR T
TWO CRANES LIFT THE APPROXIMATELY 8,000-POUND INTERIM CRYOGENIC PROPULSION STAGE TEST ARTICLE OUT OF ITS CRATE AT MARSHALL. THE TEST ARTICLE ARRIVED AT MARSHALL SPACE FLIGHT CENTER VIA BARGE ON THE TENNESSEE RIVER AND WAS TRANSPORTED TO BUILDING 4649 WHERE TESTING WILL BEGIN.
INTERIM CRYOGENIC PROPULSION STAGE TEST ARTICLE UNLOADED PRIOR T
TWO CRANES LIFT THE APPROXIMATELY 8,000-POUND INTERIM CRYOGENIC PROPULSION STAGE TEST ARTICLE OUT OF ITS CRATE AT MARSHALL. THE TEST ARTICLE ARRIVED AT MARSHALL SPACE FLIGHT CENTER VIA BARGE ON THE TENNESSEE RIVER AND WAS TRANSPORTED TO BUILDING 4649 WHERE TESTING WILL BEGIN.
INTERIM CRYOGENIC PROPULSION STAGE TEST ARTICLE UNLOADED PRIOR T
TWO CRANES LIFT THE APPROXIMATELY 8,000-POUND INTERIM CRYOGENIC PROPULSION STAGE TEST ARTICLE OUT OF ITS CRATE AT MARSHALL. THE TEST ARTICLE ARRIVED AT MARSHALL SPACE FLIGHT CENTER VIA BARGE ON THE TENNESSEE RIVER AND WAS TRANSPORTED TO BUILDING 4649 WHERE TESTING WILL BEGIN.
INTERIM CRYOGENIC PROPULSION STAGE TEST ARTICLE UNLOADED PRIOR T
TWO CRANES LIFT THE APPROXIMATELY 8,000-POUND INTERIM CRYOGENIC PROPULSION STAGE TEST ARTICLE OUT OF ITS CRATE AT MARSHALL. THE TEST ARTICLE ARRIVED AT MARSHALL SPACE FLIGHT CENTER VIA BARGE ON THE TENNESSEE RIVER AND WAS TRANSPORTED TO BUILDING 4649 WHERE TESTING WILL BEGIN.
INTERIM CRYOGENIC PROPULSION STAGE TEST ARTICLE UNLOADED PRIOR T
TWO CRANES LIFT THE APPROXIMATELY 8,000-POUND INTERIM CRYOGENIC PROPULSION STAGE TEST ARTICLE OUT OF ITS CRATE AT MARSHALL. THE TEST ARTICLE ARRIVED AT MARSHALL SPACE FLIGHT CENTER VIA BARGE ON THE TENNESSEE RIVER AND WAS TRANSPORTED TO BUILDING 4649 WHERE TESTING WILL BEGIN.
INTERIM CRYOGENIC PROPULSION STAGE TEST ARTICLE UNLOADED PRIOR T
TWO CRANES LIFT THE APPROXIMATELY 8,000-POUND INTERIM CRYOGENIC PROPULSION STAGE TEST ARTICLE OUT OF ITS CRATE AT MARSHALL. THE TEST ARTICLE ARRIVED AT MARSHALL SPACE FLIGHT CENTER VIA BARGE ON THE TENNESSEE RIVER AND WAS TRANSPORTED TO BUILDING 4649 WHERE TESTING WILL BEGIN.
INTERIM CRYOGENIC PROPULSION STAGE TEST ARTICLE UNLOADED PRIOR T
TWO CRANES LIFT THE APPROXIMATELY 8,000-POUND INTERIM CRYOGENIC PROPULSION STAGE TEST ARTICLE OUT OF ITS CRATE AT MARSHALL. THE TEST ARTICLE ARRIVED AT MARSHALL SPACE FLIGHT CENTER VIA BARGE ON THE TENNESSEE RIVER AND WAS TRANSPORTED TO BUILDING 4649 WHERE TESTING WILL BEGIN.
INTERIM CRYOGENIC PROPULSION STAGE TEST ARTICLE UNLOADED PRIOR T
TWO CRANES LIFT THE APPROXIMATELY 8,000-POUND INTERIM CRYOGENIC PROPULSION STAGE TEST ARTICLE OUT OF ITS CRATE AT MARSHALL. THE TEST ARTICLE ARRIVED AT MARSHALL SPACE FLIGHT CENTER VIA BARGE ON THE TENNESSEE RIVER AND WAS TRANSPORTED TO BUILDING 4649 WHERE TESTING WILL BEGIN.
INTERIM CRYOGENIC PROPULSION STAGE TEST ARTICLE UNLOADED PRIOR T
Advanced Electric Propulsion Systems Contract, Technology Demonstration Unit, TDU-3 Checkout Test Hardware Installed in Vacuum Facility 5, VF-5
Advanced Electric Propulsion Systems Contract, Technology Dem...
Advanced Electric Propulsion Systems Contract, Technology Demonstration Unit, TDU-3 Checkout Test Hardware Installed in Vacuum Facility 5, VF-5
Advanced Electric Propulsion Systems Contract, Technology Dem...
Jet Propulsion Laboratory Manager of Elementary and Secondary Education David Seidel motivates teachers and middle school students during the kick off of NASA's Summer of Innovation program at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Pasadena, Calif., Thursday, June 10, 2010. Through the program, NASA will engage thousands of middle school students and teachers in stimulating math and science-based education programs with the goal of increasing the number of future scientists, mathematicians, and engineers.  Photo Credit: (NASA/Bill Ingalls)
Summer of Innovation Kick Off
Director of NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory, Michael Watkins speaks during a press conference held after the end of the Cassini mission, Friday, Sept. 15, 2017 at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Pasadena, California. Since its arrival in 2004, the Cassini-Huygens mission has been a discovery machine, revolutionizing our knowledge of the Saturn system and captivating us with data and images never before obtained with such detail and clarity. On Sept. 15, 2017, operators deliberately plunged the spacecraft into Saturn, as Cassini gathered science until the end. Loss of contact with the Cassini spacecraft occurred at 7:55 a.m. EDT (4:55 a.m. PDT). The “plunge” ensures Saturn’s moons will remain pristine for future exploration. During Cassini’s final days, mission team members from all around the world gathered at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory, Pasadena, California, to celebrate the achievements of this historic mission. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)
Cassini End of Mission Press Conference