PROMONTORY, Utah, August 7, 2009 – Alliant Techsystems (NYSE: ATK) Space Systems and NASA will make history on August 25 as the new Ares I five-segment first stage is tested, marking the start of a new era of space exploration.

What: Horizontal ground test firing of Ares I first stage

When: Tuesday, August 25, 2009

Time: 1 p.m. MDT

Where: ATK Space Systems facility in Promontory, Utah

Test Objectives/Background:

  • A total of 46 design objectives will be measured through 650 instrument channels
  • The Ares I design is based on the design of the space shuttle’s four-segment booster
  • The addition of the fifth segment will increase the maximum thrust performance to approximately 3.6 million pounds
  • The first stage of Ares I has been under development since 2005, it measures 12 feet in diameter and 154 feet in length.
  • The cases have previously flown on the space shuttle, collectively launching 48 missions–including STS-1.

Note to Editor:

  • Media passes are required in order to view the test
  • Foreign requests must be submitted by 4 p.m., August 13, 2009
  • All other media requests must be submitted by 4 p.m., August 20, 2009
  • Reporters will need to be on site by 9 a.m. the day of the test
  • The media will be located in a viewing site optimal for photos and video. Reporters will be escorted to conduct interviews and view the motor up close prior to the test
  • Upon request, reporters may view the motor after the firing
  • Broadcast: Live equipment needs to be scheduled in advance to arrange for parking

For more information and to request a media pass, contact Trina Patterson (801) 699-0943 trina.patterson@atk.com