NASA Engineers Streamline Rocket Vibration and Shock Analysis Using New Commercial Software Workflow
NASA engineers have streamlined how they prepare rockets and spacecraft to withstand the intense physical forces of launch and ascent.
NASA engineers have streamlined how they prepare rockets and spacecraft to withstand the intense physical forces of launch and ascent. Using a commercial software tool in a new way, the team at Kennedy Space Center developed a standardized workflow for finite element modeling. This computer-based method uses finite element analysis, a simulation technique that breaks complex structures into smaller parts to predict how hardware responds to specific forces.
According to NASA, the tool replaces older estimation methods that relied heavily on simple approximations and rules of thumb from past missions. The software provides templates that guide engineers more quickly through vibration profiles and shock conditions. The team recently applied the software during the certification of a commercial launch provider's rocket.
When the partner provided vibration testing but omitted shock testing, NASA engineers used their new template to run what-if comparisons and verify flight environments. This approach saved months of work by letting the team run independent analyses and identify risks early.
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Original publication: 20 October 2026 00:58
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