Far-Out Fact

The SSMEs weigh only one-seventh as much as a typical train engine but produce as much horsepower as 39 locomotives. 

Far-Out Fact

The turbopumps on the SSMEs are so powerful that each could drain an average family swimming pool in 25 seconds. 

Far-Out Fact

The energy produced by the three SSMEs is about equal to the energy generated by 23 Hoover Dams. The Hoover Dam provides enough energy to power half a million homes. 

Far-Out Fact

The fuel from the ET flows into the engine at a rate of about 513 kilograms (1131 pounds) per second.