NASA Mobile Launch Structures
Since the beginning of our nation’s space program, RS&H has been a key designer for the structures used to launch rockets. Beginning with the Apollo Program, RS&H designed three Mobile Launchers for the Saturn V rockets in the 1960s and subsequently developed modifications to transition them into Mobile Launcher Platforms for the Shuttle Program in the 1970s.
After the Shuttle’s retirement, RS&H was tasked to design a fourth mobile launch structure, a lightweight Mobile Launcher for the Constellation Program. Before it was completed, the Constellation Program’s “single stick” solid rocket was replaced by the much larger Space Launch System rocket.
RS&H accepted the challenge to design the modifications necessary to strengthen the new Mobile Launcher to support the new vehicle. The exhaust opening in the base of the launcher was widened and reinforced to accommodate a much heavier core vehicle with two solid rocket boosters. Currently, additional modifications are under way to install ground support equipment including launch accessories (umbilicals and swing arms), fluids, and electrical systems.
Project Details
| Description | Aerospace Engineering Space Launch Facilities HVAC/Mechanical Engineering |
| Location | Kennedy Space Center, FL |
| Client/Owner | NASA |
