Boeing Delivers Critical Core Stage for NASA's Lunar Mission: Details

The Boeing Company BA has delivered the second core stage of the Space Launch System (SLS) rocket to NASA.

Built at NASA’s Michoud Assembly Facility, this stage will send the Artemis II crew into lunar orbit for the first time in 50 years.

The Boeing-built rocket stage, the largest component of the Artemis II mission, will be transported 900 miles to NASA’s Kennedy Space Center via the Pegasus barge.

Upon arrival at Kennedy Space Center, the core stage will be integrated with the upper stage, solid rocket boosters, and NASA’s Orion spacecraft in the Vehicle Assembly Building.

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This integration is a critical step in preparing for the Artemis II launch, scheduled for 2025.

The delivery of Core Stage 2 marks a significant milestone for the SLS rocket. Over 200 feet tall and powered by four RS-25 engines and two boosters, it will provide 8.8 million pounds of thrust for Artemis II and future missions.

Dave Dutcher, vice president and program manager for Boeing’s SLS program, said, “Boeing-built products helped land humankind on the moon in 1969, and we’re proud to continue that legacy through the Artemis generation.”

“Together, with NASA and our industry partners and suppliers, we are building the world’s most capable rocket and paving the way to deep space through America’s rocket factory in New Orleans.”

This week, Boeing reportedly commenced certification flight testing for its much-delayed 777-9 aircraft, with U.S. aviation regulators onboard.

Boeing stock has lost more than 12% in the last 12 months. Investors can gain exposure to the stock via IShares U.S. Aerospace & Defense ETF ITA and Invesco Aerospace & Defense ETF PPA.

Also Read: Judge Allots Time For Boeing 737 MAX Crash Victims’ Relatives To Object Plea Deal: Report

Price Action: BA shares are down 0.24% at $185.61 premarket at the last check Wednesday.

Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.

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