The Rocket Engine Test Facility (RETF) at NASA’s Glenn Research Center conducted experimental tests of high-energy propellants and rocket engine components that were integral to the U.S. Space Program from 1957 to 1995. The RETF was designated a National Historic Landmark for its contributions to the Apollo Program. This website was designed to preserve the legacy of the RETF for future generations.
History
Origins of the RETF
The RETF, which began operation at the dawn of the Space Age, played an integral part in the development of liquid hydrogen technology.
Apollo Era Testing
With the launch of Sputnik I, the focus of RETF rocket research quickly pivoted from military applications to space exploration as the U.S. strove to prove its technical competence.
Shuttle Era Testing
After the Apollo Program, researchers used the RETF for a number of research programs that contributed to the development of propulsion systems for the space shuttle and advanced engine concepts.
Final Years
After years of negotiation, NASA removed the RETF in 2004 to make way for a runway expansion at the adjacent Cleveland Hopkins International Airport.
Facility
Buildings and Systems
The RETF originally included a control center and a test cell. There was also an observation blockhouse that protected the researchers, fuel storage areas, and a waste water treatment system.
Conducting a Test
This page describes the basic theory of rocket propulsion and the steps necessary to test an engine at the RETF.
Research
Ideas Into Hardware
This book authored by Dr. Virginia Dawson, details the early development of NASA’s rocket research, the need for the RETF, and its roles in the Apollo Program, and space shuttle development.
Publications
The RETF historic mitigation effort yielded a narrative history, a website, documentary video, a Historic American Engineering Report, and an interactive exhibit.
RETF Staff
The RETF relied on a diverse group of researchers, engineers, technicians, and mechanics to develop test programs, install the hardware, run the tests, and maintain the facility.
Historical Documents
Collection of historical documents, reference material, and technical reports related to the RETF's history, testing, and historical mitigation.
The NASA Glenn History Office documents the research, facilities, and people who have contributed to the center’s extensive history and manages the Glenn History Collection.
