NASA's Upgraded Megarocket Engines Set for Critical Testing in Preparation for Artemis Missions

NASA is set to begin a series of critical tests on the upgraded RS-25 engine, which will power the Space Launch System (SLS) rocket for future Artemis missions to the Moon. The tests, scheduled to extend into 2024, will take place at NASA's Stennis Space Center in Mississippi. The revamped engine features new components and will undergo 12 tests to finalize and certify its design. The data gathered from these tests will ensure the engine's performance and reliability for future missions. Once the tests are completed, NASA plans to produce 24 new RS-25 engines for use in the Artemis 5 mission scheduled for 2028. However, concerns have been raised about the affordability and sustainability of the SLS program.