SLS Core Stage Pathfinder arrives at NASA Michoud

The Space Launch System (SLS) core stage pathfinder, which is similar in similar in size, shape and weight to the 212-foot-tall core stage, was transported to NASA’s Michoud Assembly Facility. To reduce the risk of first-time operations with one-of-a-kind spaceflight hardware for SLS, the agency is using the pathfinder to test new shipping and handling equipment and procedures from the manufacturing site to the test site to the launch site.

The Space Launch System (SLS) core stage pathfinder, which is similar in similar in size, shape and weight to the 212-foot-tall core stage, arrived at NASA’s Michoud Assembly Facility early in the morning on September 27, 2017.