Vehicle Analysis Branch – Activities
Space Launch System
As NASA develops its most powerful exploration rocket, VAB is making significant contributions to the trajectory and separation analysis.
Hypersonics
VAB provides significant support to NASA Aeronautics Research Directorate’s (ARMD) Hypersonic Technology Project (HTP).
HL-20
HL-20 was a spaceplane concept studied by VAB. The design uses a lifting body configuration, capable of a conventional runway landing.
NESC Independent Assessments
VAB ensures the safety of American astronauts by providing an independent assessment for the NASA Engineering & Safety Center (NESC).
Entry, Descent, and Landing (EDL)
As NASA plans missions to the Moon and Mars, VAB analyzes the Entry, Descent, and Landing (EDL) trajectory of America’s spacecraft.
Orion Crew Module ———————————-
VAB used simulation software to test flight controls and system capabilities of Orion, which will take the first woman and next man to the Moon.
RD-SACD Collaboration
VAB works alongside the Research Directorate (RD) to provide a systems assessment of RD technologies currently under development.
Hercules
VAB personnel have been developing Hercules, an efficient, cost-effective and reusable method of bringing humans to and from Mars.
Mars Swing
Designed to minimize the risks of Mars missions, the Mars Swing is just one of the concepts VAB analyzed to support future space exploration.