{"id":622282,"date":"2024-02-27T15:20:54","date_gmt":"2024-02-27T20:20:54","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.nasa.gov\/?post_type=reference&p=622282"},"modified":"2024-04-24T17:38:39","modified_gmt":"2024-04-24T21:38:39","slug":"operations-and-checkout-facility-kennedy-space-center","status":"publish","type":"reference","link":"https:\/\/www.nasa.gov\/reference\/operations-and-checkout-facility-kennedy-space-center\/","title":{"rendered":"Operations and Checkout Facility, Kennedy Space Center"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n<div id=\"\" class=\" hds-module hds-module-full wp-block-nasa-blocks-secondary-navigation\"><div class=\"hds-secondary-navigation-wrapper z-top width-100 padding-0\"><div id=\"\" class=\"hds-secondary-navigation width-full border-bottom-1px text-center hds-color-mode-dark hds-module hds-module-full wp-block-nasa-blocks-hdsnav\"><button type=\"button\" class=\"hds-secondary-nav-mobile-button display-flex tablet:display-flex desktop:display-none width-full flex-align-center bg-carbon-90 border-color-carbon-80 color-spacesuit-white\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"hds-secondary-nav-track\"><span>Orion Spacecraft<\/span><svg width=\"16\" height=\"16\" alt=\"\" enable-background=\"new 0 0 400 400\" viewBox=\"0 0 400 400\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"><path d=\"m4.2 122.2 195.1 195.1 196.5-196.6-37.9-38-157.8 157.8-156.8-156.8z\" \/><\/svg><\/button><div class=\"hds-secondary-nav-track grid-container grid-container-extrawide padding-0 tablet:padding-x-3 desktop:padding-x-2 \"><div class=\"hds-secondary-navigation-menu-items\"><nav><ul class=\"usa-nav__primary usa-accordion flex-justify-center margin-0\"><li class=\"usa-nav__primary-item \"><a class=\"usa-nav__link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.nasa.gov\/orion-spacecraft\/\">Home<\/a><\/li><li class=\"usa-nav__primary-item \"><a class=\"usa-nav__link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.nasa.gov\/orion-overview\/\">About<\/a><\/li><li class=\"usa-nav__primary-item \"><a class=\"usa-nav__link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.nasa.gov\/orion-news\/\">News<\/a><\/li><li class=\"usa-nav__primary-item\"><button type=\"button\" class=\"usa-accordion__button usa-nav__link\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"basic-nav-section-one\"><span>Resources<\/span><svg class=\"hds-desktop-submenu-toggle-icon display-none tablet:display-none desktop:display-block\" width=\"16\" height=\"16\" alt=\"\" enable-background=\"new 0 0 400 400\" viewBox=\"0 0 400 400\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"><path d=\"m4.2 122.2 195.1 195.1 196.5-196.6-37.9-38-157.8 157.8-156.8-156.8z\" \/><\/svg><svg class=\"hds-mobile-submenu-toggle-icon display-block tablet:display-block desktop:display-none\" width=\"16\" height=\"16\" viewBox=\"0 0 16 16\" fill=\"none\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"><circle cx=\"8\" cy=\"8\" r=\"7.5\" fill=\"#0B3D91\" stroke=\"white\"\/><rect x=\"4\" y=\"7.6001\" width=\"8\" height=\"0.8\" fill=\"white\"\/><rect class=\"hds-mobile-submenu-toggle-icon-line-vertical\" x=\"7.59998\" y=\"12\" width=\"8\" height=\"0.8\" transform=\"rotate(-90 7.59998 12)\" fill=\"white\"\/><\/svg><\/button><ul id=\"basic-nav-section-one\" class=\"usa-nav__submenu\" hidden><li class=\"usa-nav__submenu-item \"><a class=\"usa-nav__link\" target=\"_self\" href=\"https:\/\/www.nasa.gov\/humans-in-space\/orion-spacecraft\/orion-fact-sheets\/\">Fact Sheets<\/a><\/li><li class=\"usa-nav__submenu-item \"><a class=\"usa-nav__link\" target=\"_self\" href=\"https:\/\/www.nasa.gov\/humans-in-space\/orion-spacecraft\/orion-media-resources\/\">Media Resources<\/a><\/li><li class=\"usa-nav__submenu-item \"><a class=\"usa-nav__link\" target=\"_self\" href=\"https:\/\/www.nasa.gov\/orion-activities-and-downloads\/\">Activities & Downloads<\/a><\/li><li class=\"usa-nav__submenu-item \"><a class=\"usa-nav__link\" target=\"_self\" href=\"https:\/\/www.flickr.com\/photos\/nasaorion\/\" rel=\"noopener\">Imagery<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class=\"usa-nav__primary-item \"><a class=\"usa-nav__link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.nasa.gov\/reference\/orion-spacecraft\/\">Reference Guide<\/a><\/li><li class=\"usa-nav__primary-item \"><a class=\"usa-nav__link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.nasa.gov\/orions-missions\/\">Missions<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n<div id=\"\" class=\"hds-encyclopedia-intro-banner bg-carbon-05 width-full maxw-full hds-module hds-module-full wp-block-nasa-blocks-encyclopedia-intro-banner\">\t<div class=\"padding-y-0 padding-x-3 desktop:padding-y-0 desktop:padding-x-5\">\n\t\t<div class=\"grid-row flex-align-center\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"desktop:grid-col-2\"><\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class=\"desktop:grid-col-5 padding-y-4\">\n\t\t\t\t<h1 class=\"display-48 font-weight-extrabold margin-bottom-1\">\n\t\t\t\t\tOperations and Checkout Facility, Kennedy Space Center\t\t\t\t<\/h1>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p class=\"p-lg margin-0 margin-bottom-2\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\tThe Neil Armstrong Operations & Checkout (O&C) Building at Kennedy Space Center in Cape Canaveral, Florida, has played a vital role in NASA\u2019s spaceflight history. Built in 1964, the facility was used during the Apollo program to process and test the command, service, and lunar modules. The facility is being used today to process and assemble the Orion spacecraft. Orion is tested, assembled, and readied in a large room in the O&C called a high bay, operated by Lockheed Martin, that functions as a high-tech factory. The high bay includes unique tooling stations, test fixtures, chambers, and clean rooms for the buildup and testing of Orion.\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"display-flex flex-align-center\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"display-flex flex-align-center label-inter color-carbon-60 margin-right-2 desktop:margin-right-3\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<svg class=\"square-2 margin-right-1\" viewBox=\"0 0 600 600\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><path d=\"M293 .1C131.3 3.5-.5 136.4.1 300.1c-.7 162.7 132 301.1 302.2 299.9 165.8-1.1 299.2-136.6 297.6-303.2C598.3 132.5 462.9-3.5 293 .1zm8.9 570.6C151.5 571.8 30.6 451.1 29.2 302.4c-1.4-149.6 119.7-273.2 270.9-273 144.2-.2 266.7 114.2 270.4 263.7 3.8 153.2-117.9 276.5-268.6 277.6z\"\/><path d=\"M444.1 450.4c-67.3.1-134.5.1-201.8.1-15.9 0-31.8.1-47.7-.1-7-.1-12.6-4.5-14.4-11-1.9-6.6.4-13.4 6.9-16.6 3.8-1.9 8.5-2.7 12.7-2.8 81.6-.2 163.2-.1 244.7 0 3.9 0 5.6-.6 5.5-5.1-.1-96.5-.1-193.1 0-289.6 0-4.4-1.5-5.3-5.5-5.3-15.7.2-31.5.1-47.2.1-6.8 0-6.8 0-6.8 6.6v167.5c0 1.8-.2 3.5-.3 5.3-.5.2-1.1.5-1.6.7-14.6-14.7-29.2-29.4-45.1-45.4l-44.1 44.1V120.7c-1.7-.2-3-.5-4.2-.5-28.5 0-56.9-.4-85.4.1-34.3.6-59.6 26-59.7 60.1-.3 85.1-.1 170.2-.1 255.3 0 8.3 2.2 16 6.7 23 9.2 14.5 22.7 21.3 39.7 21.4 35.3.1 70.6 0 105.9 0 47.5 0 95.1 0 142.6.1 3.6 0 5.1-.8 4.9-4.8-.3-6.3-.4-12.7 0-19.1.5-4.8-1.2-5.9-5.7-5.9z\"\/><\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<span>Encyclopedia<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"label-inter color-carbon-60\">Updated Feb 27, 2024<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class=\"desktop:grid-col-5 desktop:padding-left-5 padding-top-3\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"hds-media-wrapper margin-left-auto margin-right-auto\"><figure class=\"hds-media-inner hds-cover-wrapper hds-media-ratio-fit \"><img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1920\" height=\"1440\" src=\"https:\/\/images-assets.nasa.gov\/image\/art001e000672\/art001e000672~large.jpg?w=1920&h=1440&fit=clip&crop=faces%2Cfocalpoint\" class=\"attachment-medium_large size-medium_large\" alt=\"\" style=\"transform: scale(1); transform-origin: 50% 50%; object-position: 50% 50%; object-fit: cover;\" block_context=\"nasa-block\" srcset=\"https:\/\/images-assets.nasa.gov\/image\/art001e000672\/art001e000672~large.jpg?w=1920&h=1440&fit=crop&crop=faces%2Cfocalpoint 1920w, https:\/\/images-assets.nasa.gov\/image\/art001e000672\/art001e000672~large.jpg?w=300&h=225&fit=crop&crop=faces%2Cfocalpoint 300w, https:\/\/images-assets.nasa.gov\/image\/art001e000672\/art001e000672~large.jpg?w=768&h=576&fit=crop&crop=faces%2Cfocalpoint 768w, https:\/\/images-assets.nasa.gov\/image\/art001e000672\/art001e000672~large.jpg?w=1024&h=768&fit=crop&crop=faces%2Cfocalpoint 1024w, https:\/\/images-assets.nasa.gov\/image\/art001e000672\/art001e000672~large.jpg?w=1536&h=1152&fit=crop&crop=faces%2Cfocalpoint 1536w, https:\/\/images-assets.nasa.gov\/image\/art001e000672\/art001e000672~large.jpg?w=400&h=300&fit=crop&crop=faces%2Cfocalpoint 400w, https:\/\/images-assets.nasa.gov\/image\/art001e000672\/art001e000672~large.jpg?w=600&h=450&fit=crop&crop=faces%2Cfocalpoint 600w, https:\/\/images-assets.nasa.gov\/image\/art001e000672\/art001e000672~large.jpg?w=900&h=675&fit=crop&crop=faces%2Cfocalpoint 900w, https:\/\/images-assets.nasa.gov\/image\/art001e000672\/art001e000672~large.jpg?w=1200&h=900&fit=crop&crop=faces%2Cfocalpoint 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px\" loading=\"eager\" \/><\/figure><figcaption class=\"hds-caption padding-y-2\"><div class=\"hds-caption-text p-sm margin-0\">art001e000672 (Nov. 28, 2022) On flight day 13, Orion reached its maximum distance from Earth during the Artemis I mission when it was 268,563 miles away from our home planet. Orion has now traveled farther than any other spacecraft built for humans.<\/div><\/figcaption><\/div>\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n\n<div id=\"\" class=\" hds-module hds-module-full wp-block-nasa-blocks-secondary-navigation\"><div class=\"hds-secondary-navigation-wrapper z-top width-100 padding-0\"><div id=\"\" class=\"hds-secondary-navigation width-full border-bottom-1px text-center hds-color-mode-dark hds-module hds-module-full wp-block-nasa-blocks-hdsnav\"><button type=\"button\" class=\"hds-secondary-nav-mobile-button display-flex tablet:display-flex desktop:display-none width-full flex-align-center bg-carbon-90 border-color-carbon-80 color-spacesuit-white\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"hds-secondary-nav-track\"><span>Orion Encyclopedic Reference<\/span><svg width=\"16\" height=\"16\" alt=\"\" enable-background=\"new 0 0 400 400\" viewBox=\"0 0 400 400\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"><path d=\"m4.2 122.2 195.1 195.1 196.5-196.6-37.9-38-157.8 157.8-156.8-156.8z\" \/><\/svg><\/button><div class=\"hds-secondary-nav-track grid-container grid-container-extrawide padding-0 tablet:padding-x-3 desktop:padding-x-2 \"><div class=\"hds-secondary-navigation-menu-items\"><nav><ul class=\"usa-nav__primary usa-accordion flex-justify-center margin-0\"><li class=\"usa-nav__primary-item \"><a class=\"usa-nav__link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.nasa.gov\/reference\/orion-spacecraft\/\">Orion Reference Guide Home<\/a><\/li><li class=\"usa-nav__primary-item \"><a class=\"usa-nav__link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.nasa.gov\/reference\/orion-components\/\">Orion Components<\/a><\/li><li class=\"usa-nav__primary-item\"><button type=\"button\" class=\"usa-accordion__button usa-nav__link\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"basic-nav-section-one\"><span>Development and Testing<\/span><svg class=\"hds-desktop-submenu-toggle-icon display-none tablet:display-none desktop:display-block\" width=\"16\" height=\"16\" alt=\"\" enable-background=\"new 0 0 400 400\" viewBox=\"0 0 400 400\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"><path d=\"m4.2 122.2 195.1 195.1 196.5-196.6-37.9-38-157.8 157.8-156.8-156.8z\" \/><\/svg><svg class=\"hds-mobile-submenu-toggle-icon display-block tablet:display-block desktop:display-none\" width=\"16\" height=\"16\" viewBox=\"0 0 16 16\" fill=\"none\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"><circle cx=\"8\" cy=\"8\" r=\"7.5\" fill=\"#0B3D91\" stroke=\"white\"\/><rect x=\"4\" y=\"7.6001\" width=\"8\" height=\"0.8\" fill=\"white\"\/><rect class=\"hds-mobile-submenu-toggle-icon-line-vertical\" x=\"7.59998\" y=\"12\" width=\"8\" height=\"0.8\" transform=\"rotate(-90 7.59998 12)\" fill=\"white\"\/><\/svg><\/button><ul id=\"basic-nav-section-one\" class=\"usa-nav__submenu\" hidden><li class=\"usa-nav__submenu-item \"><a class=\"usa-nav__link\" target=\"_self\" href=\"https:\/\/www.nasa.gov\/reference\/johnson-space-center\/\">Johnson Space Center<\/a><\/li><li class=\"usa-nav__submenu-item \"><a class=\"usa-nav__link\" target=\"_self\" href=\"https:\/\/www.nasa.gov\/reference\/white-sands-test-facility\/\">White Sands Test Facility<\/a><\/li><li class=\"usa-nav__submenu-item \"><a class=\"usa-nav__link\" target=\"_self\" href=\"https:\/\/www.nasa.gov\/reference\/langley-research-center\/\">Langley Research Center<\/a><\/li><li class=\"usa-nav__submenu-item \"><a class=\"usa-nav__link\" target=\"_self\" href=\"https:\/\/www.nasa.gov\/reference\/michoud-assembly-facility\/\">Michoud Assembly Facility<\/a><\/li><li class=\"usa-nav__submenu-item \"><a class=\"usa-nav__link\" target=\"_self\" href=\"https:\/\/www.nasa.gov\/reference\/marshall-space-flight-center\/\">Marshall Space Flight Center<\/a><\/li><li class=\"usa-nav__submenu-item \"><a class=\"usa-nav__link\" target=\"_self\" href=\"https:\/\/www.nasa.gov\/reference\/neil-a-armstrong-test-facility\/\">Neil A. Armstrong Test Facility<\/a><\/li><li class=\"usa-nav__submenu-item \"><a class=\"usa-nav__link\" target=\"_self\" href=\"https:\/\/www.nasa.gov\/reference\/operations-and-checkout-facility-kennedy-space-center\/\">Operations and Checkout Facility, Kennedy Space Center<\/a><\/li><li class=\"usa-nav__submenu-item \"><a class=\"usa-nav__link\" target=\"_self\" href=\"https:\/\/www.nasa.gov\/reference\/lockheed-martin-facilities\/\">Lockheed Martin Facilities<\/a><\/li><li class=\"usa-nav__submenu-item \"><a class=\"usa-nav__link\" target=\"_self\" href=\"https:\/\/www.nasa.gov\/reference\/other-facilities-testing\/\">Other Facilities Testing<\/a><\/li><li class=\"usa-nav__submenu-item \"><a class=\"usa-nav__link\" target=\"_self\" href=\"https:\/\/www.nasa.gov\/reference\/final-operations-and-assembly-at-kennedy\/\">Final Operations and Assembly at Kennedy<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class=\"usa-nav__primary-item\"><button type=\"button\" class=\"usa-accordion__button usa-nav__link\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"basic-nav-section-one\"><span>Missions<\/span><svg class=\"hds-desktop-submenu-toggle-icon display-none tablet:display-none desktop:display-block\" width=\"16\" height=\"16\" alt=\"\" enable-background=\"new 0 0 400 400\" viewBox=\"0 0 400 400\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"><path d=\"m4.2 122.2 195.1 195.1 196.5-196.6-37.9-38-157.8 157.8-156.8-156.8z\" \/><\/svg><svg class=\"hds-mobile-submenu-toggle-icon display-block tablet:display-block desktop:display-none\" width=\"16\" height=\"16\" viewBox=\"0 0 16 16\" fill=\"none\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"><circle cx=\"8\" cy=\"8\" r=\"7.5\" fill=\"#0B3D91\" stroke=\"white\"\/><rect x=\"4\" y=\"7.6001\" width=\"8\" height=\"0.8\" fill=\"white\"\/><rect class=\"hds-mobile-submenu-toggle-icon-line-vertical\" x=\"7.59998\" y=\"12\" width=\"8\" height=\"0.8\" transform=\"rotate(-90 7.59998 12)\" fill=\"white\"\/><\/svg><\/button><ul id=\"basic-nav-section-one\" class=\"usa-nav__submenu\" hidden><li class=\"usa-nav__submenu-item \"><a class=\"usa-nav__link\" target=\"_self\" href=\"https:\/\/www.nasa.gov\/reference\/artemis-i\/\">Artemis I<\/a><\/li><li class=\"usa-nav__submenu-item \"><a class=\"usa-nav__link\" target=\"_self\" href=\"https:\/\/www.nasa.gov\/reference\/artemis-ii\/\">Artemis II<\/a><\/li><li class=\"usa-nav__submenu-item \"><a class=\"usa-nav__link\" target=\"_self\" href=\"https:\/\/www.nasa.gov\/reference\/artemis-iii\/\">Artemis III<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class=\"usa-nav__primary-item\"><button type=\"button\" class=\"usa-accordion__button usa-nav__link\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"basic-nav-section-one\"><span>More<\/span><svg class=\"hds-desktop-submenu-toggle-icon display-none tablet:display-none desktop:display-block\" width=\"16\" height=\"16\" alt=\"\" enable-background=\"new 0 0 400 400\" viewBox=\"0 0 400 400\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"><path d=\"m4.2 122.2 195.1 195.1 196.5-196.6-37.9-38-157.8 157.8-156.8-156.8z\" \/><\/svg><svg class=\"hds-mobile-submenu-toggle-icon display-block tablet:display-block desktop:display-none\" width=\"16\" height=\"16\" viewBox=\"0 0 16 16\" fill=\"none\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"><circle cx=\"8\" cy=\"8\" r=\"7.5\" fill=\"#0B3D91\" stroke=\"white\"\/><rect x=\"4\" y=\"7.6001\" width=\"8\" height=\"0.8\" fill=\"white\"\/><rect class=\"hds-mobile-submenu-toggle-icon-line-vertical\" x=\"7.59998\" y=\"12\" width=\"8\" height=\"0.8\" transform=\"rotate(-90 7.59998 12)\" fill=\"white\"\/><\/svg><\/button><ul id=\"basic-nav-section-one\" class=\"usa-nav__submenu\" hidden><li class=\"usa-nav__submenu-item \"><a class=\"usa-nav__link\" target=\"_self\" href=\"https:\/\/www.nasa.gov\/reference\/completed-flight-tests\/\">Completed Flight Tests<\/a><\/li><li class=\"usa-nav__submenu-item \"><a class=\"usa-nav__link\" target=\"_self\" href=\"https:\/\/www.nasa.gov\/reference\/apollo-to-artemis\/\">Apollo to Artemis<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/ul><\/nav><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-nasa-blocks-encyclopedic-content-columns alignfull hds-columns hds-encyclopedic-content-columns\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-nasa-blocks-encyclopedic-primary-column hds-column hds-encyclopedic-column hds-encyclopedic-primary-column\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Environmental Testing<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Environmental testing, including thermal cycle testing and acoustic testing, takes place in the high bay of the O&C. Environmental testing is performed to simulate environments the spacecraft will experience through launch, travel in deep space, and recovery, as well as evaluate the spacecraft\u2019s structure and systems in those conditions. <\/p>\n\n\n<div id=\"\" class=\"hds-media hds-module wp-block-image\"><div class=\"margin-left-auto margin-right-auto nasa-block-align-inline\"><div class=\"hds-media-wrapper margin-left-auto margin-right-auto\"><figure class=\"hds-media-inner hds-cover-wrapper hds-media-ratio-cover \"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nasa.gov\/image-article\/good-vibrations-orion-crew-module-undergoes-testing\/\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1041\" height=\"781\" src=\"https:\/\/www.nasa.gov\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/p5020056.jpg?w=1041\" class=\"attachment-2048x2048 size-2048x2048\" alt=\"Orion service module\" style=\"transform: scale(1); transform-origin: 49% 54%; object-position: 49% 54%; object-fit: cover;\" block_context=\"nasa-block\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.nasa.gov\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/p5020056.jpg 1041w, https:\/\/www.nasa.gov\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/p5020056.jpg?resize=300,225 300w, https:\/\/www.nasa.gov\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/p5020056.jpg?resize=768,576 768w, https:\/\/www.nasa.gov\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/p5020056.jpg?resize=1024,768 1024w, https:\/\/www.nasa.gov\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/p5020056.jpg?resize=400,300 400w, https:\/\/www.nasa.gov\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/p5020056.jpg?resize=600,450 600w, https:\/\/www.nasa.gov\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/p5020056.jpg?resize=900,675 900w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1041px) 100vw, 1041px\" \/><\/a><\/figure><figcaption class=\"hds-caption padding-y-2\"><div class=\"hds-caption-text p-sm margin-0\">On April 29 at NASA\u2019s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, Orion\u2019s service module moved to the lift station inside the assembly bay.<\/div><\/figcaption><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Crew and Service Module Direct Field Acoustic Testing<\/strong><\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The crew module and service module undergo direct field acoustic testing separately to ensure they are prepared to endure the noises of launch and ascent to space. During this testing, the crew or service module is surrounded with speakers and exposed to maximum acoustic levels that the vehicle will experience in space. Engineers secure the module inside a test cell and then attach microphones, strain gauges, and accelerometers to it. The module is blasted with extreme vibrations and acoustic levels up to 141 decibels \u2013 as loud as a jet engine during takeoff \u2013 to ensure the spacecraft and its systems can withstand the noise expected during launch.<\/p>\n\n\n<div id=\"\" class=\"hds-media hds-module wp-block-image\"><div class=\"margin-left-auto margin-right-auto nasa-block-align-inline\"><div class=\"hds-media-wrapper margin-left-auto margin-right-auto\"><figure class=\"hds-media-inner hds-cover-wrapper hds-media-ratio-cover \"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nasa.gov\/image-article\/surround-sound-orion-service-module-artemis-1-undergoes-acoustic-tests\/\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1041\" height=\"694\" src=\"https:\/\/www.nasa.gov\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/orion_service_module_acoustic_test_co.jpg?w=1041\" class=\"attachment-2048x2048 size-2048x2048\" alt=\"Orion's service module for NASA's Artemis 1 mission is in a test cell inside the O&C at Kennedy Space Center in Florida.\" style=\"transform: scale(1); transform-origin: 50% 50%; object-position: 50% 50%; object-fit: cover;\" block_context=\"nasa-block\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.nasa.gov\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/orion_service_module_acoustic_test_co.jpg 1041w, https:\/\/www.nasa.gov\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/orion_service_module_acoustic_test_co.jpg?resize=300,200 300w, https:\/\/www.nasa.gov\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/orion_service_module_acoustic_test_co.jpg?resize=768,512 768w, https:\/\/www.nasa.gov\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/orion_service_module_acoustic_test_co.jpg?resize=1024,683 1024w, https:\/\/www.nasa.gov\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/orion_service_module_acoustic_test_co.jpg?resize=400,267 400w, https:\/\/www.nasa.gov\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/orion_service_module_acoustic_test_co.jpg?resize=600,400 600w, https:\/\/www.nasa.gov\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/orion_service_module_acoustic_test_co.jpg?resize=900,600 900w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1041px) 100vw, 1041px\" \/><\/a><\/figure><figcaption class=\"hds-caption padding-y-2\"><div class=\"hds-caption-text p-sm margin-0\">Surround Sound – Orion service module for Artemis 1 undergoes acoustic tests<\/div><\/figcaption><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Crew Module and Service Module Thermal Cycle Testing<\/strong><\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Thermal cycle testing is performed separately on the crew and service module inside a specially constructed thermal cycle chamber. Over several days, the crew or service module is rapidly cycled between hot and cold temperatures to thermally stress the hardware and ensure the workmanship of the module\u2019s critical hardware and its subsystem operations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Engineers successfully completed a thermal cycle test on the Artemis I crew module in February 2018. The cycle of temperatures for the initial thermal test ranged from 29 to 129 degrees Fahrenheit during 105 hours of testing. Engineers successfully completed a thermal cycle test on the Artemis I service module in December 2019.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Acceptance and Workmanship Testing<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The Orion spacecraft undergoes assembly and testing in the high bay of the O&C Building to ensure its workmanship before ground processing and integration with the SLS rocket.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Proof Pressure Testing <\/strong><\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Engineers conduct a series of tests on the spacecraft\u2019s pressure vessel, or underlying structure of the crew module. In a test stand inside the proof pressure cell, technicians attach hundreds of strain gauges to the interior and exterior surfaces of the vehicle. The strain gauges measure the strength of the welds on the spacecraft as it is pressurized at incremental steps over two days to reach the maximum pressure it is expected to encounter during flight.<\/p>\n\n\n<div id=\"\" class=\"hds-media hds-module wp-block-image\"><div class=\"margin-left-auto margin-right-auto nasa-block-align-inline\"><div class=\"hds-media-wrapper margin-left-auto margin-right-auto\"><figure class=\"hds-media-inner hds-cover-wrapper hds-media-ratio-cover \"><a href=\"https:\/\/images-assets.nasa.gov\/image\/jsc2022e044886\/jsc2022e044886~large.jpg?w=1920&h=1440&fit=clip&crop=faces%2Cfocalpoint\" rel=\"noopener\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1920\" height=\"1440\" src=\"https:\/\/images-assets.nasa.gov\/image\/jsc2022e044886\/jsc2022e044886~large.jpg?w=1920&h=1440&fit=clip&crop=faces%2Cfocalpoint\" class=\"attachment-2048x2048 size-2048x2048\" alt=\"\" style=\"transform: scale(1); transform-origin: 50% 50%; object-position: 50% 50%; object-fit: cover;\" block_context=\"nasa-block\" srcset=\"https:\/\/images-assets.nasa.gov\/image\/jsc2022e044886\/jsc2022e044886~large.jpg?w=1920&h=1440&fit=crop&crop=faces%2Cfocalpoint 1920w, https:\/\/images-assets.nasa.gov\/image\/jsc2022e044886\/jsc2022e044886~large.jpg?w=300&h=225&fit=crop&crop=faces%2Cfocalpoint 300w, https:\/\/images-assets.nasa.gov\/image\/jsc2022e044886\/jsc2022e044886~large.jpg?w=768&h=576&fit=crop&crop=faces%2Cfocalpoint 768w, https:\/\/images-assets.nasa.gov\/image\/jsc2022e044886\/jsc2022e044886~large.jpg?w=1024&h=768&fit=crop&crop=faces%2Cfocalpoint 1024w, https:\/\/images-assets.nasa.gov\/image\/jsc2022e044886\/jsc2022e044886~large.jpg?w=1536&h=1152&fit=crop&crop=faces%2Cfocalpoint 1536w, https:\/\/images-assets.nasa.gov\/image\/jsc2022e044886\/jsc2022e044886~large.jpg?w=400&h=300&fit=crop&crop=faces%2Cfocalpoint 400w, https:\/\/images-assets.nasa.gov\/image\/jsc2022e044886\/jsc2022e044886~large.jpg?w=600&h=450&fit=crop&crop=faces%2Cfocalpoint 600w, https:\/\/images-assets.nasa.gov\/image\/jsc2022e044886\/jsc2022e044886~large.jpg?w=900&h=675&fit=crop&crop=faces%2Cfocalpoint 900w, https:\/\/images-assets.nasa.gov\/image\/jsc2022e044886\/jsc2022e044886~large.jpg?w=1200&h=900&fit=crop&crop=faces%2Cfocalpoint 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px\" \/><\/a><\/figure><figcaption class=\"hds-caption padding-y-2\"><div class=\"hds-caption-text p-sm margin-0\">Lockheed Martin engineers and technicians prepare the Orion pressure vessel for a series of tests inside the proof pressure cell in the Neil Armstrong Operations and Checkout Building at NASA\u2019s Kennedy Space Center in Florida.<\/div><\/figcaption><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<p>The tests confirm that the weld points of the underlying structure will contain and protect astronauts during the launch, in-space, entry into Earth\u2019s atmosphere, and landing phases on Artemis missions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Proof pressure testing was completed on the Artemis I pressure vessel in May 2016.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Crew Module and Service Module Functional and Performance Testing<\/strong><\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Orion crew modules undergo initial power-on events, which are the first time the vehicle management computers and the power and data units are installed on the crew module, loaded with flight software and tested. These tests verify the health and status of Orion\u2019s core computers and power and data units, and ensure the systems communicate precisely with one another to accurately route power and functional commands throughout the spacecraft.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Orion service modules also separately undergo initial power-on events. The initial power-on tests allow technicians to check all cables are connected and data is being transferred at the speeds required by Orion, as well as the power distribution across the module.<\/p>\n\n\n<div id=\"\" class=\"hds-media hds-module wp-block-image\"><div class=\"margin-left-auto margin-right-auto nasa-block-align-inline\"><div class=\"hds-media-wrapper margin-left-auto margin-right-auto\"><figure class=\"hds-media-inner hds-cover-wrapper hds-media-ratio-cover \"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nasa.gov\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/12\/orion_cm.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2048\" height=\"1365\" src=\"https:\/\/www.nasa.gov\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/12\/orion_cm.jpg?w=2048\" class=\"attachment-2048x2048 size-2048x2048\" alt=\"Orion Crew Module\" style=\"transform: scale(1.2); transform-origin: 50% 50%; object-position: 50% 50%; object-fit: cover;\" block_context=\"nasa-block\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.nasa.gov\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/12\/orion_cm.jpg 6720w, https:\/\/www.nasa.gov\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/12\/orion_cm.jpg?resize=300,200 300w, https:\/\/www.nasa.gov\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/12\/orion_cm.jpg?resize=768,512 768w, https:\/\/www.nasa.gov\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/12\/orion_cm.jpg?resize=1024,683 1024w, https:\/\/www.nasa.gov\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/12\/orion_cm.jpg?resize=1536,1024 1536w, https:\/\/www.nasa.gov\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/12\/orion_cm.jpg?resize=2048,1365 2048w, https:\/\/www.nasa.gov\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/12\/orion_cm.jpg?resize=400,267 400w, https:\/\/www.nasa.gov\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/12\/orion_cm.jpg?resize=600,400 600w, https:\/\/www.nasa.gov\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/12\/orion_cm.jpg?resize=900,600 900w, https:\/\/www.nasa.gov\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/12\/orion_cm.jpg?resize=1200,800 1200w, https:\/\/www.nasa.gov\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/12\/orion_cm.jpg?resize=2000,1333 2000w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 2048px) 100vw, 2048px\" \/><\/a><\/figure><figcaption class=\"hds-caption padding-y-2\"><div class=\"hds-caption-text p-sm margin-0\">Technicians assist as the Orion crew module for Exploration Mission-1 is moved toward the thermal chamber in the Neil Armstrong Operations and Checkout Building high bay at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. <\/div><\/figcaption><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In August 2017, the Artemis I crew module was powered on for the first time. The Artemis I service module, integrated with the crew module adapter, was powered on for the first time in February 2019.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>After initial power-on, the Orion crew module and service module undergo separate functional testing, which ensures each of the module\u2019s systems powers on and functions as designed. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>After functional testing is completed, separate performance testing of the crew module and service module takes place, which verifies that each module\u2019s systems not only power on but are functioning at the correct parameters. Performance testing also takes place after the two modules are mated.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Spacecraft Integration and Final Testing<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>After functional and performance testing takes place on the crew and service modules individually, they are moved to the Final Assembly and System Testing (FAST) cell, where they are integrated and put through their final system tests prior to rolling out of the O&C for commodity servicing and integration with the rocket.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Inside the FAST cell, the integrated spacecraft goes through a final round of testing and assembly, including end-to-end performance verification of the vehicle\u2019s subsystems, checking for leaks in the spacecraft\u2019s propulsion systems, installing its solar array wings, performing spacecraft closeouts and pressurizing a subset of its tanks in preparation for flight prior to being transported to the Multi-Payload Processing Facility (MPPF). From July to November 2019, engineers at Kennedy mated the Artemis I crew and service module inside the FAST cell, where the integrated spacecraft underwent functional and performance testing. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n<div id=\"\" class=\"hds-media hds-module wp-block-image\"><div class=\"margin-left-auto margin-right-auto nasa-block-align-inline\"><div class=\"hds-media-wrapper margin-left-auto margin-right-auto\"><figure class=\"hds-media-inner hds-cover-wrapper hds-media-ratio-cover \"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nasa.gov\/image-article\/orion-moved-from-assembly-stand-ahead-of-shipment-ohio-tests\/\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1041\" height=\"781\" src=\"https:\/\/www.nasa.gov\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/pb110153.jpg?w=1041\" class=\"attachment-2048x2048 size-2048x2048\" alt=\"The Orion crew and service module stack for Artemis I was lifted out of the Final Assembly and Test (FAST) cell. \" style=\"transform: scale(1); transform-origin: 50% 73%; object-position: 50% 73%; object-fit: cover;\" block_context=\"nasa-block\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.nasa.gov\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/pb110153.jpg 1041w, https:\/\/www.nasa.gov\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/pb110153.jpg?resize=300,225 300w, https:\/\/www.nasa.gov\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/pb110153.jpg?resize=768,576 768w, https:\/\/www.nasa.gov\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/pb110153.jpg?resize=1024,768 1024w, https:\/\/www.nasa.gov\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/pb110153.jpg?resize=400,300 400w, https:\/\/www.nasa.gov\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/pb110153.jpg?resize=600,450 600w, https:\/\/www.nasa.gov\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/pb110153.jpg?resize=900,675 900w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1041px) 100vw, 1041px\" \/><\/a><\/figure><figcaption class=\"hds-caption padding-y-2\"><div class=\"hds-caption-text p-sm margin-0\">Orion Moved from Assembly Stand Ahead of Shipment to Ohio for Tests<\/div><\/figcaption><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<p>The Artemis I spacecraft was then transferred to NASA\u2019s Armstrong Test Facility in Sandusky, Ohio, where it underwent full environmental testing from December 2019 to March 2020.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The vehicle then returned to the FAST cell in March 2020, to go through a final round of testing and assembly prior to being transported to the MPPF in January 2021.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-nasa-blocks-encyclopedic-sidebar-column hds-column hds-encyclopedic-column hds-encyclopedic-sidebar-column\">\n<div style=\"height:40px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>The Neil Armstrong Operations & Checkout (O&C) Building at Kennedy Space Center in Cape Canaveral, Florida, has played a vital role in NASA\u2019s spaceflight history. Built in 1964, the facility was used during the Apollo program to process and test the command, service, and lunar modules. The facility is being used today to process and assemble the Orion spacecraft. Orion is tested, assembled, and readied in a large room in the O&C called a high bay, operated by Lockheed Martin, that functions as a high-tech factory. The high bay includes unique tooling stations, test fixtures, chambers, and clean rooms for the buildup and testing of Orion.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":178,"featured_media":0,"template":"","meta":{"nasa_hds_core_meta_l10n":"en-US","nasa_hds_core_meta_article_editor":"","nasa_hds_core_meta_article_contacts":[],"nasa_hds_core_meta_article_topic":"","nasa_hds_core_meta_linked_locations":[],"nasa_hds_core_meta_article_related_articles":[],"hds_migrate_meta_pr_release_id":"","hds_migrate_meta_pr_release_type":"","nasa_hds_core_meta_location_x":"","nasa_hds_core_meta_location_y":"","nasa_hds_core_meta_gallery_images":[]},"categories":[2683,3783],"news-tags":[],"internal-terms":[3941],"coauthors":[10429],"parsely":{"version":"1.1.0","meta":{"@context":"https:\/\/schema.org","@type":"WebPage","headline":"Operations and Checkout Facility, Kennedy Space Center","url":"https:\/\/www.nasa.gov\/reference\/operations-and-checkout-facility-kennedy-space-center\/","mainEntityOfPage":{"@type":"WebPage","@id":"https:\/\/www.nasa.gov\/reference\/operations-and-checkout-facility-kennedy-space-center\/"},"thumbnailUrl":"","image":{"@type":"ImageObject","url":""},"articleSection":"Missions","author":[{"@type":"Person","name":"Erika Peters"}],"creator":["Erika Peters"],"publisher":{"@type":"Organization","name":"NASA","logo":"https:\/\/www.nasa.gov\/wp-content\/themes\/nasa\/assets\/images\/nasa-logo.svg"},"keywords":["NASA Directorates","Exploration Systems Development Mission Directorate","Common Exploration Systems Development Division","Orion Program","Orion Multi-Purpose Crew Vehicle"],"dateCreated":"2024-02-27T20:20:54Z","datePublished":"2024-02-27T20:20:54Z","dateModified":"2024-04-24T21:38:39Z"},"rendered":"<meta name=\"parsely-title\" content=\"Operations and Checkout Facility, Kennedy Space Center\" \/>\n<meta name=\"parsely-link\" content=\"https:\/\/www.nasa.gov\/reference\/operations-and-checkout-facility-kennedy-space-center\/\" \/>\n<meta name=\"parsely-type\" content=\"index\" \/>\n<meta name=\"parsely-pub-date\" content=\"2024-02-27T20:20:54Z\" \/>\n<meta name=\"parsely-section\" content=\"Missions\" \/>\n<meta name=\"parsely-tags\" content=\"NASA Directorates,Exploration Systems Development Mission Directorate,Common Exploration Systems Development Division,Orion Program,Orion Multi-Purpose Crew Vehicle\" \/>\n<meta name=\"parsely-author\" content=\"Erika Peters\" \/>","tracker_url":"https:\/\/cdn.parsely.com\/keys\/nasa.gov\/p.js"},"read_time":5,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.nasa.gov\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/reference\/622282"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.nasa.gov\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/reference"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.nasa.gov\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/reference"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.nasa.gov\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/178"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"https:\/\/www.nasa.gov\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/reference\/622282\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":653287,"href":"https:\/\/www.nasa.gov\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/reference\/622282\/revisions\/653287"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.nasa.gov\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=622282"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.nasa.gov\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=622282"},{"taxonomy":"news-tags","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.nasa.gov\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/news-tags?post=622282"},{"taxonomy":"internal-terms","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.nasa.gov\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/internal-terms?post=622282"},{"taxonomy":"author","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.nasa.gov\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/coauthors?post=622282"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}