The DCSS has been selected as the interim upper stage for
the first two flights of the Space Launch System (SLS), according to a
justification on NASA procurement website.
Based on the responses to that sources sought synopsis, NASA
determined that the DCSS is the only means available to support the immediate
in-space propulsion needs of the SLS within the SLS manifest schedule
constraints," says the agency, “the DCSS is the only known in-space stage
requiring relatively minor modifications to enable full compliance with the
requirements of the early SLS manifest."
The DCSS is powered by a single Pratt & Whitney
Rocketdyne RL-10B engine, fueled by liquid hydrogen, like this one:
The rocket has divided the political and space communities,
with supporters trumpeting its unprecedented capabilities and detractors
blaming the program for taking precious dollars from NASA. In any case, NASA is
now legally required to build SLS, earning it the derisive name 'Senate launch
system' in some corners.
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