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This is in no way the end of our Space Explorations. It is just the beginning of a new era of Deeper Space Exploration.
Originally posted by kittyfatale
It was kind of sad seeing it go...the end of our space program correct?
[color=7BD1CB]On Sept. 14, 2011, NASA announced a new capability for America's space program: a heavy-lift rocket designed to carry the Orion spacecraft and send astronauts farther into space than ever before. And now, one year later, NASA has made swift progress improving on existing hardware, testing and developing new components, and paving the way for a new launch vehicle. The SLS will make human exploration of deep space a reality and create new possibilities for scientific discovery.
[color=7BD1CB]"The SLS is a national capability and will be the largest rocket ever built, providing the power we need to truly explore beyond our current limits," said Todd May, Space Launch System program manager. "Not only will it take us beyond low Earth orbit, but it will take us there faster."
[color=7BD1CB]Watch NASA's video on the first year of SLS achievements:
[color=7BD1CB]"Our goal was to become a leaner and more efficient program, based on lessons learned from previous successes by the agency," May said. "But even more important is to build a safe vehicle for our astronauts and one that can sustain exploration for years to come. That takes time and we're off to a great start. We want to inspire the next generation of scientists, engineers and explorers."
[color=7BD1CB]The SLS initially will be capable of carrying 70 metric tons to space. A larger, future version of the rocket will launch up to 130 metric tons -- equivalent to about 75 sport utility vehicles -- to future destinations such as an asteroid, near-lunar space and, eventually, Mars.
Piggybacked on a 747. Nice video, it did come fairly close to you.
Originally posted by dreamfox1
Video of Endeavor Shuttle Flyby over my apartment