Let's Make Up More Busy Work For Stennis

NASA doesn't need to test SLS anymore, but the Senate mandates it anyway, Ars Technica

"But there was more to the NASA amendment. Wicker co-sponsored it and got his own language added to the bill. The Stennis-specific provision says NASA should "initiate development of a main propulsion test article for the integrated core stage propulsion elements of the Space Launch System, consistent with cost and schedule constraints, particularly for long-lead propulsion hardware needed for flight." ... This seems a somewhat curious rationale, as NASA has already said the SLS core stage does not need to be subjected to further ground tests. Rather, NASA is pushing to fly the vehicle as soon as possible, as the agency is sensitive to criticism that the rocket is years behind schedule and billions of dollars over budget, and it's viewed by detractors as a jobs program."

Keith's note: And of course, since NASA Administrator Senator Nelson is for anything that it takes to fund SLS - even if NASA does not need it. He'll support this pointless SLS test article - just like he supported absolutely everything else associated with SLS.

- NASA Just Can't Get That Engine Test Stand Thing Right, earlier post
- NASA OIG: NASA's Decision Process for Conducting Space Launch System Core Stage Testing at Stennis, earlier post
- Too Many Test Stands at NASA?, earlier post
- OIG Slaps NASA on Un-Needed Stennis Test Stands - Again, earlier post