The first of ten work platforms that will provide access to NASA’s Space Launch System (SLS) rocket has been installed inside the Vehicle Assembly Building (VAB) at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida.
When the SLS arrives at Kennedy for processing prior to launch, it will be housed in the VAB atop the mobile launcher and will stand more than 350 feet above the ground. Engineers are installing platforms at key points along the body of the rocket to provide access needed for launch preparations.
Within the tallest portion of the VAB, the SLS rocket will reside in one of four vertical corridors, called high bays. High bay 3 will be home to the SLS rocket, and technicians will use High Bay 4 to prepare the mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems on each platform before it is installed.
The transfer aisle down the center of the VAB connects the bays, allowing massive components and equipment to be rolled into the building, lifted and assembled.