Boeing

HUNTSVILLE, Ala., Sept. 14, 2011 -- NASA today announced its chosen configuration for the Space Launch System (SLS). Boeing released the following statement from Exploration Launch Systems Vice President Jim Chilton:

"Boeing welcomes today's announcement of the configuration for the Space Launch System. NASA’s selected architecture for this new space exploration transportation system is the result of significant work by the U.S. Congress, the Office of Management and Budget, the Obama administration and NASA. This decision marks an important milestone for the future of the nation's human spaceflight program.

"As we await NASA’s acquisition decisions, we stand ready to support the agency’s exploration plan with our ongoing work on upper stage and avionics contracts.

"We remain focused on affordable cryogenic stage and avionics development and production. And we agree with NASA that the use of common cryogenic stage design, supply chain and production methods can reduce costs and increase flexibility. This will be key as NASA evolves the vehicle to take the necessary mass to escape velocity and enable crewed missions to destinations beyond Earth's orbit.

"Boeing is prepared to move forward on the SLS with existing hardware, tested production tooling and a highly skilled team. Timing for the implementation of the SLS program is critical to preserve unique industrial base skills and ensure continued U.S. leadership in human spaceflight."

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Contact:

Susan Wells
Space Exploration
Office: 321-264-8580
Mobile: 321-446-4970
susan.h.wells@boeing.com

Paula Korn
Space Exploration
Office: 281-226-4114
Mobile: 281-658-0337
paula.korn@boeing.com