SSME Testing Technology at the John C. Stennis Space Center

John C. Stennis Space Center (SSC) has developed a very effective capability for testing the Space Shuttle Main Engine (SSME). To meet special SSME test requirements, the SSC Test Complex utilizes a number of sophisticated test stands (positions), test support facilities, and control centers to conduct development testing and flight acceptance testing at both nominal and off-nominal conditions. SSC tests evaluate and characterize SSME performance to certify flight acceptance and to provide data for use during flight operations. SSC's advanced facilities and procedures have future application for testing of new launch vehicle and orbiter vehicle engine designs.