NASA successfully tests jettison motor

Universe Today (7/21, O'Neill) reported, "It looks like the hardware is gradually slotting into place for the development of the Orion capsule in NASA's Constellation Program. On July 17th, the ultimate 'ejection seat' was tested by NASA and rocket contractor Aerojet: The Orion jettison motor." This test was successful, which, according to the article, is "boosting confidence in the new safety system the capsule will have installed." Universe Today also described this a "critical stage in the development of Orion" and "will be a huge piece of mind for mission controllers and Constellation astronauts should there be launch complications on the pad or as Ares powers through the atmosphere."