MilestoneAugust 27, 2026

Engine installation begins on SLS core stage for Artemis III

Technicians at Kennedy Space Center have begun mounting four RS-25 engines onto the Space Launch System core stage that will launch astronauts to the Moon next year.

Weld Test Completed for Artemis III Rocket Core Stage Tank
Weld Test Completed for Artemis III Rocket Core Stage Tank · Jared Lyons, Public domain (NASA)

Technicians at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida have begun installing four RS-25 engines into the core stage of the Space Launch System rocket designated for Artemis III. The installation follows the mating of the engine section to the core stage.

The milestone signals advancing progress on hardware required for next year's crewed lunar landing mission. Four SLS vehicles are currently in various stages of production across the program.

See Artemis III in the map