Blankets to shield RS-25s

The heat shield around the Space Launch System RS-25 engines will be flexible blankets rather than the type used in the Space Shuttle Program. The lighter blankets are similar to the ones used on other vehicles and on the aft skirt of the Solid Rocket Boosters. The new blanket design will save about 700 pounds and will be easier to produce, assemble and install. The design change will debut during the "green run" test firings at NASA's Stennis Space Center. (Source: NASA Spaceflight, 09/03/12)