GEM 46

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Model: GEM 46. Gross Mass: 19,327 kg (42,608 lb). Empty Mass: 2,282 kg (5,030 lb). Thrust (vac): 628.310 kN (141,250 lbf). Isp: 278 sec. Burn time: 75 sec. Propellants: Solid. Isp(sl): 273 sec. Diameter: 1.17 m (3.83 ft). Span: 1.17 m (3.83 ft). Length: 14.70 m (48.20 ft). Country: USA. No Engines: 1. Motor: GEM 46. Status: Active. First Flight: 1998. Last Flight: 2007. No Launched: 45.

Nine 1168-mm (46 in.) diameter Alliant graphite epoxy motors (GEM LDXLs) (strap-on solid rocket motors [SSRMs]) augment the first-stage performance and are a direct evolution from the GEMs currently used on Delta II. Three ground-ignited SSRMs have thrust vector control (TVC) to increase control authority. Ordnance for motor ignition and separation systems is completely redundant. Solid-motor separation is accomplished using redundantly initiated ordnance thrusters that provide the radial thrust to separate the expended solid motors from the booster.

Used on Launch Vehicles:

Delta.

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