Goal: In order to design an engine and engine turbines that will survive the massive forces they will encounter during a launch, NASA needs to make sure that the materials used to build the engine meet certain criteria.  Your job is to recommend what metal alloy they should use.

 

Procedure:

1. Read the article RS-25: The Clark Kent of Engines for the Space Launch System and Complete the Analysis paper to pull out the important information from the article and record some initial thoughts about what types of materials should be used.

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2. Brainstorm a list of the ideal properties that you want the engine to have.

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3. Learn what an alloy is.  Then research different types of alloys.  As you research, keep your list of ideal properties in mind.

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4. Based on your research, write a letter to the SLS Deputy Program Manager, Ms. Jody Singer, explaining the following:

- What an alloy is

- The ideal properties for a spaceship engine

- The alloy you recommend NASA use for the RS-25 engines and engine turbines

- The physical and chemical properties of your chosen material

 

5. For a '4': Within your letter, analyze and compare multiple alloys and use data to support your chosen material.