NASA’s first Ares I crew launch vehicle (CLV) five-segment solid rocket motor (SRM) firing test has been delayed by up to six-months from 2 April to September at the latest or August
Ares I uses an SRM for its first stage and its prime contractor Alliant Techsystems (ATK), which provides the Space Shuttle Programme’s four-segment motor, won the development contract in 2007
Asked why there was a possible six month delay ATK says: “[We] need to be sure the first test is right and there is no critical path impact,” meaning the CLV’s development will not be set back by the delay
ATK had planned to test after DM-1 its demonstration motors DM-2 and 3 in August and September, which are now likely to be delayed toward the end of the year if not to 2010
