5 min read<\/p>\n
Preparations for Next Moonwalk Simulations Underway (and Underwater)<\/h1>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<\/div>NASA\u2019s Stennis Space Center enjoyed an active 2024, marking several milestones and engaging in frontline activities in several key areas. A compilation video offers a look at 2024 highlights in such areas of work as propulsion testing, autonomous systems, range operations, community outreach, and STEM engagement.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\nNASA\u2019s Stennis Space Center near Bay St. Louis, Mississippi, celebrated propulsion testing and site operations milestones in 2024, all while inspiring the Artemis Generation and welcoming new leadership that will help NASA Stennis innovate and grow into the future.<\/p>\n
Featured highlights show a year of progress and vision, as NASA Stennis accelerates the exploration and commercialization of space, innovates to benefit NASA and industry, and leverages assets to grow as an impactful aerospace and technology hub.<\/p>\n
\u201cThese highlights are just a small snapshot of 2024 at NASA Stennis that show the future is bright,\u201d Bailey said. \u201cWe have an incredibly talented and committed team of employees \u2013 and all of Mississippi can be proud of the work they do here at NASA Stennis. Together, with the Artemis Generation leading the way, we are returning to the Moon. Together, we are a part of something great.\u201d<\/p>\n
New Center Leadership<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n![\"NASA](\"https:\/\/www.nasa.gov\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/1-ssc-20240918-s00948h.jpg?w=1536\")
<\/a><\/figure>\nNASA Stennis Director John Bailey, right, and NASA Stennis Deputy Director Christine Powell stand near the United States Capitol during a visit to Washington, D.C. on Sept. 18. It marked the first visit to Capitol Hill for the center leaders since being named to their current roles. <\/div>\nNASA\/Stennis<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nNASA Administrator Bill Nelson named John Bailey as director of NASA Stennis in April<\/a>. Bailey had been serving as acting director since January 2024. \u201cSo much of NASA runs through Stennis,\u201d said Nelson. \u201cIt is where we hone new and exciting capabilities in aerospace, technology, and deep space exploration. I am confident that John will lead the nation\u2019s largest and premier propulsion test site to even greater success.\u201d<\/p>\nFour months later in August<\/a>, Bailey announced that longtime propulsion engineer\/manager Christine Powell had been selected as deputy director of NASA Stennis.<\/p>\nPowell, the first woman selected as NASA Stennis deputy director, began her 33-year agency career as an intern at the center in 1991. She previously worked in multiple Engineering and Test Directorate roles, and most recently served as manager of the NASA Rocket Propulsion Test Program Office.<\/p>\n
Propulsion Activity<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n![\"a](\"https:\/\/www.nasa.gov\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/2-ssc-20240403-s00298h.jpg?w=2048\")
<\/a><\/figure>\nNASA achieves a major milestone for future Artemis missions with successful completion of the second \u2013 and final \u2013 RS-25 engine certification test series April 3 on the Fred Haise Test Stand at NASA\u2019s Stennis Space Center. <\/div>\nNASA\/Danny Nowlin<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nNASA achieved major milestones for future Artemis missions at NASA Stennis in 2024. The NASA Stennis test team successfully completed a second \u2013 and final \u2013 RS-25 engine certification test series in April<\/a>. The mission-critical series verified engine upgrades designed to enhance efficiency and reliability for future SLS (Space Launch System) missions.<\/p>\nNASA Stennis crews also completed a safe lift and installation of the interstage simulator component in October<\/a> needed for future testing of NASA\u2019s exploration upper stage in the B-2 position of the Thad Cochran Test Stand. The component will function during Green Run testing like the SLS interstage section that helps protect the upper stage during Artemis launches.<\/p>\nThe test complex milestones support NASA\u2019s goal of returning humans to the Moon and paving the way for future Mars exploration through Artemis missions.<\/p>\n
Commercial Testing<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n![\"Rocket](\"https:\/\/www.nasa.gov\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/3-rocketlab-2.jpg?w=2048\")
<\/a><\/figure>\nNASA Stennis commercial tenant Rocket Lab completes a successful hot fire test of its Archimedes engine in its onsite test complex in the second half of 2024. Rocket Lab is one of numerous customers conducting test campaigns at NASA Stennis during the most recent year. <\/div>\nRocket Lab<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nAlready the nation\u2019s largest multiuser propulsion test site, NASA Stennis aims to continue fueling growth of the commercial space market even further by working with aerospace companies to support a range of testing needs<\/a>. In 2024, NASA Stennis supported work conducted by commercial companies such as Boeing, Blue Origin, Evolution Space, Launcher (a Vast company), Relativity Space, Rocket Lab, and Rolls-Royce.<\/p>\nOfficials from NASA Stennis and Roll-Royce also broke ground in June for a test pad located in the NASA Stennis E Test Complex. Rolls-Royce will conduct hydrogen testing for the Pearl 15 engine, which helps power the Bombardier Global 5500 & 6500 aircraft.<\/p>\n
ASTRA Mission Success<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n![\"Members](\"https:\/\/www.nasa.gov\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/4-autonomous-systems-laboratory-team.jpg?w=2048\")
<\/a><\/figure>\nMembers of the NASA Stennis Autonomous Systems Laboratory team monitor the center\u2019s in-space satellite payload from the onsite ASTRA (Autonomous Satellite Technology for Resilient Applications) Payload Operation Command Center. The ASTRA payload launched aboard the Sidus Space LizzieSat-1 small satellite in March 2024, with the NASA Stennis team announcing in July that it had achieved primary mission objectives. In September, the team announced the ASTRA mission would continue during the satellite\u2019s planned four-year mission.<\/div>\nNASA\/Danny Nowlin<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nIn July<\/a>, NASA Stennis and commercial partner Sidus Space Inc. announced primary mission success for the center\u2019s historic in-space mission \u2013 an autonomous systems payload aboard an orbiting satellite.<\/p>\nASTRA (Autonomous Satellite Technology for Resilient Applications) is the on-orbit payload mission developed by NASA Stennis. The NASA Stennis ASTRA technology demonstrator is a payload rider aboard the Sidus Space premier satellite, LizzieSat-1 (LS-1) small satellite. Partner Sidus Space is responsible for all LS-1 mission operations, including launch and satellite activation, which allowed the NASA Stennis ASTRA team to complete its primary mission objectives.<\/p>\n
NASA Stennis announced in September<\/a> it will continue the center\u2019s in-space autonomous systems payload mission through a follow-on agreement with Sidus Space Inc.<\/p>\nRange Operations<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n![\"The](\"https:\/\/www.nasa.gov\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/5-skydweller-aero.jpg?w=2048\")
<\/a><\/figure>\nThe Skydweller Aero solar-powered, autonomous aircraft flies above the Thad Cochran Test Stand (B-1\/B-2) at NASA\u2019s Stennis Space Center during a September 2024 test operation. Skydweller Aero has an ongoing airspace agreement with NASA Stennis to conduct test flights of its aircraft in the area. <\/div>\nSkydweller Aero<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nDuring 2024, NASA Stennis entered into an agreement<\/a> with Skydweller Aero Inc. for the company to operate its solar-powered autonomous aircraft in the site\u2019s restricted airspace, a step towards achieving a strategic center goal.<\/p>\nThe agreement marked the first Reimbursable Space Act agreement between NASA Stennis and a commercial company to utilize the south Mississippi center\u2019s unique capabilities to support testing and operation of uncrewed systems.<\/p>\n
The company announced in October it had completed an initial test flight campaign of the aircraft, including two test excursions totaling 16 and 22.5 hours.<\/p>\n
NASA Engagement<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n![\"a](\"https:\/\/www.nasa.gov\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/6-ssc-20241101-s01132h.jpg?w=2048\")
<\/a><\/figure>\nNASA Stennis representatives inspire the Artemis Generation at the NAS Pensacola Blue Angels Homecoming Air Show on Nov. 1-2. NASA\u2019s exhibits at the air show honored 55th anniversary of the Apollo 11 lunar landing and showcased the agency\u2019s mission to inspire the world through discovery. <\/div>\nNASA\/Stennis<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nNASA representatives participated in a variety of outreach activities during the past year to create meaningful connections with the Artemis Generation.<\/p>\n
The NASA ASTRO CAMP\u00ae\u00a0<\/sup>Community Partners program<\/a>, which originated at the south Mississippi NASA center, surpassed previous milestone marks in fiscal year 2024 by partnering with 373 community sites, including 50 outside the United States, to inspire youth, families, and educators.\u00a0<\/p>\nNASA Stennis also supported STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) engagement during the year. It once again joined with NASA\u2019s Robotics Alliance Project and co-sponsor Mississippi Power to support the second annual For the Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology (FIRST) Robotics Magnolia Regional Competition in Laurel, Mississippi. The event attracted 37 high school teams from eight states and one from Mexico.<\/p>\n
The center also supported NASA activities during the 2024 total solar eclipse. In addition, it hosted informational efforts and exhibits at high-visibility events such as the 51st<\/sup> Annual Bayou Classic<\/a>, and Essence<\/a> Fest in New Orleans.<\/p>\nFor information about NASA\u2019s Stennis Space Center, visit:<\/p>\n
Stennis Space Center \u2013 NASA<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\nShare<\/h2>\n<\/p><\/div>\n\n
NASA\u2019s Stennis Space Center near Bay St. Louis, Mississippi, celebrated propulsion testing and site operations milestones in 2024, all while inspiring the Artemis Generation and welcoming new leadership that will help NASA Stennis innovate and grow into the future.<\/p>\n
Featured highlights show a year of progress and vision, as NASA Stennis accelerates the exploration and commercialization of space, innovates to benefit NASA and industry, and leverages assets to grow as an impactful aerospace and technology hub.<\/p>\n
\u201cThese highlights are just a small snapshot of 2024 at NASA Stennis that show the future is bright,\u201d Bailey said. \u201cWe have an incredibly talented and committed team of employees \u2013 and all of Mississippi can be proud of the work they do here at NASA Stennis. Together, with the Artemis Generation leading the way, we are returning to the Moon. Together, we are a part of something great.\u201d<\/p>\n
New Center Leadership<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<\/a><\/figure>\nNASA Stennis Director John Bailey, right, and NASA Stennis Deputy Director Christine Powell stand near the United States Capitol during a visit to Washington, D.C. on Sept. 18. It marked the first visit to Capitol Hill for the center leaders since being named to their current roles. <\/div>\nNASA\/Stennis<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nNASA Administrator Bill Nelson named John Bailey as director of NASA Stennis in April<\/a>. Bailey had been serving as acting director since January 2024. \u201cSo much of NASA runs through Stennis,\u201d said Nelson. \u201cIt is where we hone new and exciting capabilities in aerospace, technology, and deep space exploration. I am confident that John will lead the nation\u2019s largest and premier propulsion test site to even greater success.\u201d<\/p>\nFour months later in August<\/a>, Bailey announced that longtime propulsion engineer\/manager Christine Powell had been selected as deputy director of NASA Stennis.<\/p>\nPowell, the first woman selected as NASA Stennis deputy director, began her 33-year agency career as an intern at the center in 1991. She previously worked in multiple Engineering and Test Directorate roles, and most recently served as manager of the NASA Rocket Propulsion Test Program Office.<\/p>\n
Propulsion Activity<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<\/a><\/figure>\nNASA achieves a major milestone for future Artemis missions with successful completion of the second \u2013 and final \u2013 RS-25 engine certification test series April 3 on the Fred Haise Test Stand at NASA\u2019s Stennis Space Center. <\/div>\nNASA\/Danny Nowlin<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nNASA achieved major milestones for future Artemis missions at NASA Stennis in 2024. The NASA Stennis test team successfully completed a second \u2013 and final \u2013 RS-25 engine certification test series in April<\/a>. The mission-critical series verified engine upgrades designed to enhance efficiency and reliability for future SLS (Space Launch System) missions.<\/p>\nNASA Stennis crews also completed a safe lift and installation of the interstage simulator component in October<\/a> needed for future testing of NASA\u2019s exploration upper stage in the B-2 position of the Thad Cochran Test Stand. The component will function during Green Run testing like the SLS interstage section that helps protect the upper stage during Artemis launches.<\/p>\nThe test complex milestones support NASA\u2019s goal of returning humans to the Moon and paving the way for future Mars exploration through Artemis missions.<\/p>\n
Commercial Testing<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<\/a><\/figure>\nNASA Stennis commercial tenant Rocket Lab completes a successful hot fire test of its Archimedes engine in its onsite test complex in the second half of 2024. Rocket Lab is one of numerous customers conducting test campaigns at NASA Stennis during the most recent year. <\/div>\nRocket Lab<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nAlready the nation\u2019s largest multiuser propulsion test site, NASA Stennis aims to continue fueling growth of the commercial space market even further by working with aerospace companies to support a range of testing needs<\/a>. In 2024, NASA Stennis supported work conducted by commercial companies such as Boeing, Blue Origin, Evolution Space, Launcher (a Vast company), Relativity Space, Rocket Lab, and Rolls-Royce.<\/p>\nOfficials from NASA Stennis and Roll-Royce also broke ground in June for a test pad located in the NASA Stennis E Test Complex. Rolls-Royce will conduct hydrogen testing for the Pearl 15 engine, which helps power the Bombardier Global 5500 & 6500 aircraft.<\/p>\n
ASTRA Mission Success<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<\/a><\/figure>\nMembers of the NASA Stennis Autonomous Systems Laboratory team monitor the center\u2019s in-space satellite payload from the onsite ASTRA (Autonomous Satellite Technology for Resilient Applications) Payload Operation Command Center. The ASTRA payload launched aboard the Sidus Space LizzieSat-1 small satellite in March 2024, with the NASA Stennis team announcing in July that it had achieved primary mission objectives. In September, the team announced the ASTRA mission would continue during the satellite\u2019s planned four-year mission.<\/div>\nNASA\/Danny Nowlin<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nIn July<\/a>, NASA Stennis and commercial partner Sidus Space Inc. announced primary mission success for the center\u2019s historic in-space mission \u2013 an autonomous systems payload aboard an orbiting satellite.<\/p>\nASTRA (Autonomous Satellite Technology for Resilient Applications) is the on-orbit payload mission developed by NASA Stennis. The NASA Stennis ASTRA technology demonstrator is a payload rider aboard the Sidus Space premier satellite, LizzieSat-1 (LS-1) small satellite. Partner Sidus Space is responsible for all LS-1 mission operations, including launch and satellite activation, which allowed the NASA Stennis ASTRA team to complete its primary mission objectives.<\/p>\n
NASA Stennis announced in September<\/a> it will continue the center\u2019s in-space autonomous systems payload mission through a follow-on agreement with Sidus Space Inc.<\/p>\nRange Operations<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<\/a><\/figure>\nThe Skydweller Aero solar-powered, autonomous aircraft flies above the Thad Cochran Test Stand (B-1\/B-2) at NASA\u2019s Stennis Space Center during a September 2024 test operation. Skydweller Aero has an ongoing airspace agreement with NASA Stennis to conduct test flights of its aircraft in the area. <\/div>\nSkydweller Aero<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nDuring 2024, NASA Stennis entered into an agreement<\/a> with Skydweller Aero Inc. for the company to operate its solar-powered autonomous aircraft in the site\u2019s restricted airspace, a step towards achieving a strategic center goal.<\/p>\nThe agreement marked the first Reimbursable Space Act agreement between NASA Stennis and a commercial company to utilize the south Mississippi center\u2019s unique capabilities to support testing and operation of uncrewed systems.<\/p>\n
The company announced in October it had completed an initial test flight campaign of the aircraft, including two test excursions totaling 16 and 22.5 hours.<\/p>\n
NASA Engagement<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<\/a><\/figure>\nNASA Stennis representatives inspire the Artemis Generation at the NAS Pensacola Blue Angels Homecoming Air Show on Nov. 1-2. NASA\u2019s exhibits at the air show honored 55th anniversary of the Apollo 11 lunar landing and showcased the agency\u2019s mission to inspire the world through discovery. <\/div>\nNASA\/Stennis<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nNASA representatives participated in a variety of outreach activities during the past year to create meaningful connections with the Artemis Generation.<\/p>\n
The NASA ASTRO CAMP\u00ae\u00a0<\/sup>Community Partners program<\/a>, which originated at the south Mississippi NASA center, surpassed previous milestone marks in fiscal year 2024 by partnering with 373 community sites, including 50 outside the United States, to inspire youth, families, and educators.\u00a0<\/p>\nNASA Stennis also supported STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) engagement during the year. It once again joined with NASA\u2019s Robotics Alliance Project and co-sponsor Mississippi Power to support the second annual For the Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology (FIRST) Robotics Magnolia Regional Competition in Laurel, Mississippi. The event attracted 37 high school teams from eight states and one from Mexico.<\/p>\n
The center also supported NASA activities during the 2024 total solar eclipse. In addition, it hosted informational efforts and exhibits at high-visibility events such as the 51st<\/sup> Annual Bayou Classic<\/a>, and Essence<\/a> Fest in New Orleans.<\/p>\nFor information about NASA\u2019s Stennis Space Center, visit:<\/p>\n
Stennis Space Center \u2013 NASA<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\nShare<\/h2>\n<\/p><\/div>\n\n
![\"NASA](\"https:\/\/www.nasa.gov\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/1-ssc-20240918-s00948h.jpg\")
<\/a><\/figure>NASA Administrator Bill Nelson named John Bailey as director of NASA Stennis in April<\/a>. Bailey had been serving as acting director since January 2024. \u201cSo much of NASA runs through Stennis,\u201d said Nelson. \u201cIt is where we hone new and exciting capabilities in aerospace, technology, and deep space exploration. I am confident that John will lead the nation\u2019s largest and premier propulsion test site to even greater success.\u201d<\/p>\n Four months later in August<\/a>, Bailey announced that longtime propulsion engineer\/manager Christine Powell had been selected as deputy director of NASA Stennis.<\/p>\n Powell, the first woman selected as NASA Stennis deputy director, began her 33-year agency career as an intern at the center in 1991. She previously worked in multiple Engineering and Test Directorate roles, and most recently served as manager of the NASA Rocket Propulsion Test Program Office.<\/p>\n NASA achieved major milestones for future Artemis missions at NASA Stennis in 2024. The NASA Stennis test team successfully completed a second \u2013 and final \u2013 RS-25 engine certification test series in April<\/a>. The mission-critical series verified engine upgrades designed to enhance efficiency and reliability for future SLS (Space Launch System) missions.<\/p>\n NASA Stennis crews also completed a safe lift and installation of the interstage simulator component in October<\/a> needed for future testing of NASA\u2019s exploration upper stage in the B-2 position of the Thad Cochran Test Stand. The component will function during Green Run testing like the SLS interstage section that helps protect the upper stage during Artemis launches.<\/p>\n The test complex milestones support NASA\u2019s goal of returning humans to the Moon and paving the way for future Mars exploration through Artemis missions.<\/p>\n Already the nation\u2019s largest multiuser propulsion test site, NASA Stennis aims to continue fueling growth of the commercial space market even further by working with aerospace companies to support a range of testing needs<\/a>. In 2024, NASA Stennis supported work conducted by commercial companies such as Boeing, Blue Origin, Evolution Space, Launcher (a Vast company), Relativity Space, Rocket Lab, and Rolls-Royce.<\/p>\n Officials from NASA Stennis and Roll-Royce also broke ground in June for a test pad located in the NASA Stennis E Test Complex. Rolls-Royce will conduct hydrogen testing for the Pearl 15 engine, which helps power the Bombardier Global 5500 & 6500 aircraft.<\/p>\n In July<\/a>, NASA Stennis and commercial partner Sidus Space Inc. announced primary mission success for the center\u2019s historic in-space mission \u2013 an autonomous systems payload aboard an orbiting satellite.<\/p>\n ASTRA (Autonomous Satellite Technology for Resilient Applications) is the on-orbit payload mission developed by NASA Stennis. The NASA Stennis ASTRA technology demonstrator is a payload rider aboard the Sidus Space premier satellite, LizzieSat-1 (LS-1) small satellite. Partner Sidus Space is responsible for all LS-1 mission operations, including launch and satellite activation, which allowed the NASA Stennis ASTRA team to complete its primary mission objectives.<\/p>\n NASA Stennis announced in September<\/a> it will continue the center\u2019s in-space autonomous systems payload mission through a follow-on agreement with Sidus Space Inc.<\/p>\n During 2024, NASA Stennis entered into an agreement<\/a> with Skydweller Aero Inc. for the company to operate its solar-powered autonomous aircraft in the site\u2019s restricted airspace, a step towards achieving a strategic center goal.<\/p>\n The agreement marked the first Reimbursable Space Act agreement between NASA Stennis and a commercial company to utilize the south Mississippi center\u2019s unique capabilities to support testing and operation of uncrewed systems.<\/p>\n The company announced in October it had completed an initial test flight campaign of the aircraft, including two test excursions totaling 16 and 22.5 hours.<\/p>\n NASA representatives participated in a variety of outreach activities during the past year to create meaningful connections with the Artemis Generation.<\/p>\n The NASA ASTRO CAMP\u00ae\u00a0<\/sup>Community Partners program<\/a>, which originated at the south Mississippi NASA center, surpassed previous milestone marks in fiscal year 2024 by partnering with 373 community sites, including 50 outside the United States, to inspire youth, families, and educators.\u00a0<\/p>\n NASA Stennis also supported STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) engagement during the year. It once again joined with NASA\u2019s Robotics Alliance Project and co-sponsor Mississippi Power to support the second annual For the Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology (FIRST) Robotics Magnolia Regional Competition in Laurel, Mississippi. The event attracted 37 high school teams from eight states and one from Mexico.<\/p>\n The center also supported NASA activities during the 2024 total solar eclipse. In addition, it hosted informational efforts and exhibits at high-visibility events such as the 51st<\/sup> Annual Bayou Classic<\/a>, and Essence<\/a> Fest in New Orleans.<\/p>\n For information about NASA\u2019s Stennis Space Center, visit:<\/p>\n Stennis Space Center \u2013 NASA<\/a><\/p>\nPropulsion Activity<\/strong><\/h2>\n
<\/a><\/figure>Commercial Testing<\/strong><\/h2>\n
<\/a><\/figure>ASTRA Mission Success<\/strong><\/h2>\n
<\/a><\/figure>Range Operations<\/strong><\/h2>\n
<\/a><\/figure>NASA Engagement<\/strong><\/h2>\n
<\/a><\/figure>Share<\/h2>\n<\/p><\/div>\n