Goddard Engineering and Technology Directorate

Propulsion Lab 

Propulsion technician and engineer assemble a Rocket Engine Module (REM) for the Europa Clipper mission.
Propulsion technician and engineer assemble a Rocket Engine Module (REM) for the Europa Clipper mission.

Advanced Propulsion Lab for Precision Testing, Integration, and Assembly of High-Performance Space Systems

The Propulsion Lab features a 1,200 sq. ft. clean tent for the development, assembly, integration, and testing of in-space propulsion and fluid systems. Adjacent labs provide additional space and equipment for precision cleaning and pressure testing. Three orbital Gas Tungsten Arc Weld (GTAW) machines and a 3-axis Computer Numerical Control (CNC) tube bender are utilized to create complex tubing assemblies that meet tight packaging demands for spacecraft and deliver reliable, leak-free propulsion performance. 3000 and 4000-lb capacity overhead cranes provide the capability to lift flight components and ground support equipment for the assembly of large systems.  

The lab is also equipped to perform associated functions for a fully integrated flight propulsion system, including: bonding, thermal hardware installation, and fabrication of flight harness and electrical ground support equipment cables and racks.

Engineers and technicians execute a crane lift of the Propulsion Deck for the Roman Space Telescope propulsion system.
Engineers and technicians execute a crane lift of the Propulsion Deck for the Roman Space Telescope propulsion system.

The Propulsion Lab is managed by ETD’s Mission Engineering & System Analysis Division (Code 590). Contact ETD for more information.