Stage 1 Dimensions: 294" Long x 66" Diameter

1.Igniter 2.Interstage Attachment Area 3.Star Cored Motor Propellant 4.Motor Casing 5.Aft Closure 6.Nozzle Control Unit 7.Thrust Vector Control Nozzle Exit Cone

STAGE 1 MANUFACTURING AT THE THIOKOL PLANT

After the casing is manufactured, it is thoroughly washed to clean any contaminants away.

A liquified form of the propellant is then poured into the casing and cast in the proper shape. A hydraulic mount moves the casting to remove bubbles and other defects as it cures.

After the casting and assembly is complete, technicians X-ray the motor for cracks or bubbles in the solid propellant.

A technician performs a side-scan X-ray of the motor. Flaws in the casing are also searched for.

Here, a motor is static tested to provide evaluation of propellant thrust and other data used to improve manufacturing.