NASA and Sierra Space have unveiled the Dream Chaser space plane, which is set to embark on a historic mission to the International Space Station (ISS) later this year. The event took place at NASA’s Neil Armstrong Test Facility in Sandusky, Ohio, showcasing the robotic Dream Chaser and its cargo module named “Tenacity” and “Shooting Star,” respectively. The spacecraft, standing at 55 feet tall, were stacked vertically as they will be during launch.
Former NASA astronaut Tom Marshburn, now Sierra Space’s chief medical officer, explained the significance of the names given to the vehicles. He stated, “In order to convert bold dreams into bold action, it requires an enormous amount of tenacity, perseverance, confidence, determination, and passion. And so we name our products after these emotional characteristics that get you through the hard times.”
Tenacity will make its highly anticipated debut by ferrying cargo to the ISS for NASA. This uncrewed demonstration mission aims to advance scientific research in space and contribute to the growing economy in low Earth orbit. However, before the inaugural journey can take place, Tenacity and Shooting Star must undergo various tests at NASA’s Mechanical Vibration Facility in Sandusky. These tests simulate the harsh environments the spacecraft will encounter during launch, including the intense vibrations experienced atop a United Launch Alliance Vulcan Centaur rocket.
Sierra Space received a multi-year contract from NASA in 2016 to provide at least six ISS cargo delivery missions as part of the Commercial Resupply Services-2 (CRS2) program. This collaboration with private industry is part of NASA’s efforts to expand commercial resupply options in low Earth orbit. The agency has previously signed commercial crew deals with Boeing and SpaceX, with SpaceX already completing seven operational crewed missions to the ISS.
The involvement of private players in ISS resupply is expected to enhance scientific research opportunities in zero gravity. Marshburn highlighted the potential for developing new materials and vaccines, as well as advancements in crystal growth. He stated, “I think we are just at the first few footsteps in a brand-new world with what we are going to be able to do once we start flying.”
While Shooting Star will burn up in Earth’s atmosphere after its mission, Tenacity is designed for reusability and can undertake up to 15 missions. On its first flight, Tenacity will carry over 7,800 pounds of cargo, with the capacity to transport up to 11,500 pounds on future missions. Additionally, it can bring back more than 3,500 pounds of cargo and experiment samples, while disposing of over 8,700 pounds of garbage in the cargo module upon reentry.
Dream Chaser’s builders aimed to create a highly reusable and reliable spacecraft. Sierra Space CEO Tom Vice emphasized their commitment to minimizing environmental impact by using hydrogen peroxide and refined kerosene as fuel. Launch of Tenacity and Shooting Star is scheduled for the first half of this year from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida. Teams from Sierra Space’s Dream Chaser Mission Control Center, NASA’s Kennedy Space Center, and NASA’s Johnson Space Center will collaborate to monitor the flight, control the spacecraft, and conduct in-orbit demonstrations for future missions.
The significance of space travel extends beyond individual reasons, as it contributes to the overall learning and progress of mankind. Phil Dempsey, transportation integration manager for NASA’s International Space Station Program, emphasized the importance of space travel in enhancing our capabilities on Earth and conducting research that benefits humanity.
With the unveiling of the Dream Chaser space plane, NASA and Sierra Space are taking another step towards advancing scientific research and commercial spaceflight capabilities. The upcoming mission to the ISS marks an exciting milestone in space exploration, showcasing the potential for private industry to contribute to the growth and development of space technology.