Northrop Grumman Boosts Successful Artemis I Launch with World’s Largest and Most Powerful Rocket Boosters

Rhea-AI Summary

Northrop Grumman's solid rocket boosters successfully launched NASA’s Space Launch System (SLS) during the Artemis I mission from Kennedy Space Center. The launch produced 7.2 million pounds of thrust, marking a significant milestone in the Artemis program, which aims for deep space exploration and a sustainable lunar presence. Northrop Grumman has completed the booster segments for upcoming Artemis missions II and III, focusing on a crewed lunar landing. The company continues to support the SLS initiative through 2031, reinforcing its legacy in space technology.

Positive

• Successful launch of NASA's Artemis I mission enhances Northrop Grumman's reputation as a leader in aerospace technology.
• Completion of booster segments for Artemis II and III indicates strong project progression and future revenue opportunities.
• Ongoing support commitment for SLS through 2031 ensures continuous revenue stream from NASA.

Negative

• None.

NASA’s Space Launch System rocket, with twin Northrop Grumman solid rocket boosters, lifts off for the first Artemis program launch. Photo Credit: NASA

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla., Nov. 16, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Two Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE: NOC) five-segment solid rocket boosters helped successfully launch the first flight of NASA’s Space Launch System (SLS) rocket from Pad 39B in Kennedy Space Center, Florida as part of the Artemis I mission. This is the first in a series of Artemis missions focused on deep space exploration and establishing a sustainable human presence on and around the moon.

“The SLS rocket was launched by a powerful 7.2 million pounds of thrust from our solid rocket boosters which are largest, human-rated solid rocket boosters ever built,” said Wendy Williams, vice president, propulsion systems, Northrop Grumman. “Northrop Grumman has been pioneering in space for over 50 years and our contributions to NASA’s Artemis missions continue our incredible legacy of innovation.”

Booster segments for Artemis II, the first crewed mission, and Artemis III, the mission that will land the first woman on the lunar surface, are complete. Artemis IV segments are currently being cast with propellant. Northrop Grumman supplied rocket propulsion for NASA’s Apollo and Space Shuttle programs and developed the five-segment SLS solid rocket booster based on the flight-proven design of the space shuttle boosters. The company will provide ongoing support for SLS and the Artemis missions through 2031.

Northrop Grumman is a technology company, focused on global security and human discovery. Our pioneering solutions equip our customers with capabilities they need to connect, advance and protect the U.S. and its allies. Driven by a shared purpose to solve our customers’ toughest problems, our 90,000 employees define possible every day.

Contact:	Kendra Kastelan
	385-232-2097 (mobile)
	Kendra.Kastelan@ngc.com

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/ee10ade0-7e07-4369-ad16-3b852b83d3ae

FAQ

What is Northrop Grumman's role in NASA's Artemis missions?

Northrop Grumman provided solid rocket boosters for the Artemis I launch and will support upcoming missions through 2031.

When did the Artemis I mission launch?

The Artemis I mission was successfully launched on November 16, 2022.

What is the significance of the 7.2 million pounds of thrust produced by Northrop Grumman's boosters?

The 7.2 million pounds of thrust marks it as one of the largest outputs from human-rated solid rocket boosters, crucial for deep space missions.

How many Artemis missions is Northrop Grumman supporting?

Northrop Grumman is supporting multiple Artemis missions, including Artemis I, II, III, and IV.

What are the future plans for Northrop Grumman regarding NASA?

Northrop Grumman plans to provide ongoing support and services for NASA's SLS and Artemis missions until at least 2031.