NASA Orion MPCV Splash Test

NASA engineers conducted a successful first drop test of the Orion Multi-Purpose Crew Vehicle (MPCV) boilerplate test article on July 12. The test article weighs 22,700 pounds (10,297 kg) and was going about 24 mph (38.6 kph) at impact. NASA’s recently constructed Hydro Impact Basin is furthering the knowledge and testing of space vehicle landing systems like the Orion MPCV. Additional drop tests at greater velocities will be conducted throughout the summer.