Core Viewpoint - Northrop Grumman's BOLE booster test experienced a significant anomaly during its ground test, raising concerns about the performance and safety of the new solid rocket technology [1][3][7]. Group 1: Test Details - The BOLE booster underwent a ground test called "Demonstration Motor-1" on June 26, 2023, at a facility in Utah, aiming for a 140-second ignition [1]. - The test included 763 measurement points to monitor engine performance and a CO2 extinguishing system for safety [1][3]. - An anomaly occurred at 101 seconds into the test, where the throat of the nozzle burned through, leading to a rupture and flame ejection [1][3]. Group 2: Technical Specifications - BOLE is designed to replace the current Space Launch System's solid rocket boosters, utilizing advanced T1100 carbon fiber casing and hydroxyl-terminated polybutadiene solid propellant [3][5]. - The new design aims to produce over 1800 tons of thrust, improving the SLS's lunar payload capacity to over 46 tons [3][5]. - The test used IM7/T300 carbon fiber for the casing, with plans to switch to T1100 in future tests [5]. Group 3: Historical Context and Comparisons - This is not the first anomaly for Northrop Grumman; a similar issue occurred during the 2019 ground test of the Castor-600 solid rocket engine, where the nozzle ruptured due to pressure changes [9][12]. - The BOLE booster is seen as a larger version of the OmegA rocket, which was previously abandoned but provided valuable technology for BOLE's development [12]. Group 4: Future Implications - Despite the anomaly, the issues are not expected to derail the U.S. lunar return plans, although the low production rate of the SLS may delay future missions [18]. - The BOLE booster is set to be integrated into the SLS for its ninth mission, with ongoing tests planned to assess performance under various environmental conditions [5][18].