Testing Rocket Engine Propulsion

The surge in space launches has led to an increase in the need for rocket engine testing. More companies are testing more engines, on a shorter timeline, than ever before. The facilities and systems used to test these engines must meet demanding safety, environmental, and performance requirements to successfully certify engines for space flights. This paper focuses on how an engineering team building or maintaining a rocket engine test facility must consider:

• Tight coordination among test, support, engine, and facility systems
• System performance within acceptable tolerances for safety and engine control
• Flexibility to meet changing needs on the test stand