Crew Dragon Launch Abort System

High school (ages 12+)
Science & Technology

Name:

Date:

Step 1 · Read the article

Open the article and read it at the level above. Then answer the questions below in your own words.

https://smallwhale.org/articles/crew-dragon-launch-abort-system

Write what each word means, using the article.

Do not copy the article. Write two things you learned, the way you would explain them to a friend.

Answers below are taken from the article’s stored facts, so they match what the student read.

1. What is the propulsion units?Four SpaceX SuperDraco engines
2. What is the thrust capability?Approximately 160,000 pounds total
3. How does the launch abort system help astronauts?It uses powerful engines to push the capsule away from danger, giving astronauts a chance to survive if something goes wrong during launch.
4. Why does the system use SuperDraco engines instead of other escape rockets?The engines are built into the spacecraft, giving a strong, quick push and making the system simpler and more reliable.

Hypergolic Propellant: Rocket fuel that ignites spontaneously when it comes into contact with an oxidizer.
Max-Q: The point during a rocket's ascent when it experiences the maximum aerodynamic pressure.
Propulsive Separation: Using rocket engines to actively push a component away from another, rather than relying on mechanical separation.