NASA picks 26 proposals

NASA has selected 26 proposals from academia and industry for advanced development activities for the nation's next heavy lift rocket, the Space Launch System (SLS). Proposals from universities in the four-state Aerospace Alliance region were among the programs selected. They are Auburn University, Louisiana State University, Mississippi State University and the University of Florida. Proposals selected under this NASA Research Announcement seek innovative and affordable solutions to evolve the launch vehicle from its initial configuration to its full lift capacity capable of sending humans farther into deep space than ever before. NASA sought proposals in a variety of areas, including concept development, trades and analyses, propulsion, structures, materials, manufacturing, avionics and software. (Source: NASA, 09/21/12) Stennis Space Center, Miss., will be testing the engines for the SLS; Michoud Assembly Facility, New Orleans, is fabricating Orion crew capsules and will be building the core stage for the SLS.