Heavy lift and engineered transport specialist Sarens has completed a pivotal milestone at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center, successfully executing the transport, rigging, and stacking of the first tower module onto Mobile Launcher 2 (ML2) in partnership with Bechtel.
The operation, known as the “Rig and Set Mod 4” milestone, marks the official start of vertical construction on the ML2 tower—an essential component for future Artemis missions to the Moon. NASA plans to use ML2 to assemble, service, and launch the powerful Space Launch System (SLS) Block 1B rocket, beginning with Artemis IV.
The lift involved precise coordination and engineering expertise. Chosen for the job due to its proven track record in complex heavy lifting operations, Sarens deployed high-capacity cranes and modular transport systems to get the job done.
150 Truckloads, Weeks of Prep, and Towering Ambitions
Transporting the massive CC8800 crane, one of the key pieces of equipment, was a logistical operation in its own right. Moving it across the United States took approximately 150 individual truckloads. Once on-site at Kennedy Space Center, the crane required three weeks for full assembly.
Configured with a Boom Booster and SL Carrier, the CC8800 was used in tandem with an LR1350 crane and 24-line Self-Propelled Modular Transporters (SPMTs), all supported by specialized hydraulic systems. These tools enabled the precision lift and placement of the Mod 4 tower segment, one of seven total modules that will make up the full ML2 structure.
According to Sarens, the lift and stacking of Mod 4 presented several challenges. Weather patterns near the Atlantic coast had to be carefully monitored. Marine conditions affected timing and staging. The winter holiday period further complicated logistics. On top of that, the confined workspace required meticulous rigging and alignment.
Yet, despite the operational pressure and technical complexity, the Sarens crew—just four specialists on site—worked in step with Bechtel to meet safety and schedule requirements.
A Launch Tower That Will Soar Over 200 Feet
The ML2 tower, once complete, will stand over 200 feet tall. The stacking of the remaining six modules is scheduled to continue in rapid succession over the next several months. Each module lift adds a new level of complexity and height to the tower structure, increasing both the engineering and safety requirements of the project.
A Bechtel spokesperson commented: “Sarens’ heavy lifting capabilities, expertise, and focus on our shared value of safety have helped Bechtel execute several critical construction operations, from our ‘Jack and Set’ milestone last May, to Mod 4’s ‘Rig and Set’ milestone in January. The ML2 team looks forward to Sarens’ continued support as we begin stacking the remaining six tower modules.”
For NASA, ML2 is a central part of the Artemis program’s ground systems. The launch platform is designed to handle the increased mass and complexity of the SLS Block 1B rocket, which will carry astronauts, hardware, and cargo on deep-space missions.
With Artemis IV on the horizon, each tower module lift brings the program one step closer to its next lunar goal.
Sarens remains an integral player in this effort, demonstrating how precision heavy lift and engineering transport expertise are critical even in the realm of space exploration.
