RD180sarjat

RD180sarjat refers to a series of rocket engines developed by NPO Energomash in Russia. The RD-180 is a staged combustion rocket engine that burns kerosene and liquid oxygen. It is a dual-chamber engine, meaning it has two combustion chambers and four nozzles. The RD-180 was specifically designed for use in the first stage of the Atlas V launch vehicle, a United States expendable launch system.

The development of the RD-180 began in the early 1990s, with the first test firings occurring in 1997. Its design is derived from earlier Soviet rocket engines, notably the RD-170, which was the most powerful liquid-propellant rocket engine ever flown. The RD-180 offers high performance and reliability, making it a popular choice for the Atlas V.

The RD-180 engine has been instrumental in the success of numerous missions for both government and commercial customers, launching satellites, scientific probes, and cargo to the International Space Station. Its use in the Atlas V program has been a significant aspect of US launch capabilities. The engine's technical specifications include a thrust of approximately 8.6 million pounds-force and an impressive specific impulse. Its continued operation has been a subject of interest and discussion, particularly in the context of international space cooperation and technological dependencies.