Space Launch System acoustics: Far-field noise measurements of the Artemis-I launch

Abstract

To improve understanding of super heavy-lift rocket acoustics, this letter documents initial findings from noise measurements during liftoff of the Space Launch System's Artemis-I mission. Overall sound pressure levels, waveform characteristics, and spectra are described at distances ranging from 1.5 to 5.2 km. Significant results include: (a) the solid rocket boosters' ignition overpressure is particularly intense in the direction of the pad flame trench exit; (b) post-liftoff maximum overall levels range from 127 to 136 dB, greater than pre-launch predictions; and (c) the average maximum one-third-octave spectral peak occurred at 20 Hz, causing significant deviation between flat and A-weighted levels.