Heavy lifting and engineered transport solutions provider Sarens has completed a major construction milestone at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center, helping stack the first tower module onto the Mobile Launcher 2 (ML2) — a critical platform that will support future Artemis missions to the Moon.
Working alongside NASA and construction firm Bechtel, Sarens carried out the “Rig and Set Mod 4” operation, which involved lifting and placing the first of seven tower modules that will eventually form the ML2 launch tower. The platform will be used to assemble and launch the Space Launch System (SLS) Block 1B rocket, starting with Artemis IV.
“The ML2 team looks forward to Sarens’ continued support as we begin stacking the remaining six tower modules, adding more than 200 feet to ML2’s structural height over just a couple of months,” a Bechtel representative said.
The job required some of Sarens’ largest lifting equipment, including the CC8800 crane fitted with a Boom Booster and SL Carrier, the LR1350 crane, and 24-line self-propelled modular transporters (SPMTs). Specialised hydraulic systems were also used to manage the heavy loads with precision.
Transporting the CC8800 across the United States was a logistical challenge in itself. The crane arrived at Kennedy Space Center in 150 truckloads and took three weeks to assemble on-site. Sarens also had to manage changing weather conditions, limited work space, and scheduling around holiday periods.
Despite the complications, a small four-person team from Sarens worked closely with Bechtel to complete the task safely and on schedule.
The recent milestone sets the stage for continued construction as Sarens supports the installation of six more tower modules over the coming months. Once complete, the ML2 will stand more than 200 feet tall and serve as a critical part of NASA’s Artemis programme, which aims to return astronauts to the Moon.
“Sarens’ heavy lifting capabilities, expertise, and focus on our shared value of safety have helped Bechtel execute several critical construction operations,” the Bechtel spokesperson said, referencing previous work completed in May.
Sarens is proud to contribute to NASA’s space exploration goals and to be part of a project that pushes the boundaries of engineering on a global scale.