The first launch of the carrier rocket SLS can make manned, but it will require a three-year delay

Last summer, NASA successfully tested the first stage of the carrier rocket Space Launch System (SLS). This booster after commissioning will be the hoisting of the existing. In particular, the low support orbit rocket will deliver 77 tons of payload, and a modernized version, which will later increase this parameter up to 115 tons. In addition, the SLS is to be used in NASA Mars missions.

Earlier SLS first launch was scheduled for 2018. According to the plan, during the launch of the unmanned rocket to bring the spacecraft into orbit Orion. However, NASA plans can change. Now the agency is considering making the very first manned launch. Among other things, this should speed up the return of man to the moon.

Space

However, such a change of plans would entail a considerable delay the first run. More specifically, in the case of this decision, the SLS will make its first flight only in 2021. Extra time is not only necessary for the more rigorous testing, but also for the construction of improvements, because the presence of people on board the Orion will require the appropriate equipment that is simply not necessary at unmanned launch (Life Support System, controls, and so on).

According to the original plans of the spaceship Orion will stay in space for about three weeks, coming on the Moon's orbit (about 65 000 km above the surface). In the case of a manned mission, the trajectory of the flight of the ship will be different. Probably, the ship will make a few turns around our satellite and back home.