L3Harris Technologies and NASA successfully test-fired the new RS-25 rocket this week, paving the way for its use in the fifth Artemis mission.

The first four Artemis missions used upgraded versions of the RS-25 rocket that were developed for the space shuttle program. Monday’s test launch was the first hot-fire test of a flight version of the new RS-25 engine.

“Our propulsion technology is key to ensuring the United States leads in lunar exploration, creates a sustained presence on the Moon and does not cede this strategic frontier to other nations,” said Kristin Houston, president of Space Propulsion and Power Systems at L3Harris, in a statement.

NASA contracted L3Harris to rework the RS-25 engine design and production back in 2015. According to L3Harris, the rockets it has delivered under the contract have been cheaper, more reliable and efficient than prior space shuttle variants.

• Vaughn Cockayne can be reached at vcockayne@washingtontimes.com.