[/caption] The successful test of NASA’s Ares I-X Forward Skirt Extension on Thursday represents a “major milestone” in the development of the launch system, according to Alliant Techsystems (ATK). The “skirt extension” in question is a solid ring of aluminium (or aluminum) connecting the first stage with the upper stages of the rocket. This summer, … Continue reading "Ares I-X 2009 Test Flight Progress: Pyrotechnic Stage Separation"