Ares I-X - Test Objectives

Test Objectives

Ares I-X was the first test flight of a launch vehicle like the Ares I. The test flight objectives included:

• Demonstrating control of a dynamically similar vehicle using control algorithms similar to those used for Ares I.
• Performing an in-flight separation/staging event between an Ares I-similar First Stage and a representative Upper Stage.
• Demonstrating assembly and recovery of an Ares I-like First Stage at Kennedy Space Center (KSC).
• Demonstrating First Stage separation sequencing, and measuring First Stage atmospheric entry dynamics, and parachute performance.
• Characterizing the magnitude of integrated vehicle roll torque throughout First Stage flight.

The flight also had several secondary objectives, including:

• Quantifying the effectiveness of the first stage booster deceleration motors.
• Characterizing induced environments and loads on the vehicle during ascent.
• Demonstrating a procedure for determining the vehicle’s position to orient the flight control system.
• Characterize induced loads on the Flight Test Vehicle while on the launch pad.
• Assess potential Ares I access locations in the VAB and on the Pad.
• Assess First Stage electrical umbilical performance.

The Ares I-X flight profile closely approximated the flight conditions that Ares I will experience through Mach 4.5, at an altitude of about 130,000 feet (39,600 m) and through a maximum dynamic pressure (“Max Q”) of approximately 800 pounds per square foot (38 kPa).

The Ares I-X flight profile resembled the uncrewed Saturn I flights of the 1960s, which tested the Saturn propulsion concept.

By flying the vehicle through first stage separation, the test flight also verified the performance and dynamics of the Ares I solid rocket booster in a “single stick” arrangement, which is different from the solid rocket booster’s current “double-booster” configuration alongside the external tank on the space shuttle.