NASA completes verification of Space Launch System project

NASA completed a technical verification of the project of the new heavy launch vehicle Space Launch System, which is planned to be used for a flight to Mars.

According to a NASA representative, the first stage of testing engines and accelerators of the rocket was successful. All major components of the carrier are in production.

On the NASA Marshall Space Flight Center's channel on YouTube, the Space Launch System launch animation has been published.

Space Launch System in the basic version will be able to put 70 tons of cargo into orbit. The rocket will be equipped with four RS-25 engines and two side accelerators.

In the enhanced version of the rocket will be able to put into orbit up to 130 tons of cargo. The design of the enhanced version involves the use of four side accelerators.

The first launch of the Space Launch System is scheduled for 2018 year.