NASA Encounters Problems With Ares 1 Launch Vehicle Design

[Mark Reiff <markreiff@xxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

FYI,

"NASA Encounters Problems With Ares 1 Launch Vehicle Design"
SpaceRef.com
http://www.spaceref.com/news/viewnews.rss.spacewire.html?id=1171

Sources inside the development of the Ares 1 launch vehicle (aka Crew 
Launch Vehicle or "The Stick") have reported that the current design is 
underpowered to the tune of a metric ton or more. As currently designed, 
Ares 1 would not be able to put the present Orion spacecraft design 
(Crew Exploration Vehicle) into the orbit NASA desires for missions to 
the ISS. This is issue is more pronounced for CEV missions to the moon.

The Ares 1 SRR (System Requirements Review) was held last week at MSFC. 
Mike Griffin was in attendance. Others participated off-site via webex.com.

It is widely known that both Mike Griffin and Scott Horowitz are 
reluctant (to say the least) about abandoning their current launch 
vehicle concept. Alternate approaches such as using EELVs are not 
welcome solutions by either Griffin or Horowitz.

One possible solution to the Stick's current design problems is to add 
side-mounted solid rocket motors. Many inside the program are not so 
sure that this solution is worth the effort. Others suggest that 
starting from a clean sheet of paper may be the only prudent course of 
action.

--
Mark Reiff <markreiff@xxxxxxxxxxxxx>

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