Sierra Space and NASA Collaborate on First Dream Chaser Spacecraft Flight to the ISS
NASA has announced a collaboration with Sierra Space on the first flight of the Dream Chaser spacecraft to the International Space Station (ISS). This uncrewed cargo spaceplane is scheduled to launch in 2024 as part of NASA’s commercial resupply services program.
The Dream Chaser cargo system comprises the Dream Chaser spacecraft and the Shooting Star cargo module. The spacecraft is a reusable lifting body design and can be used up to 15 times. On the other hand, the Shooting Star cargo module is responsible for delivering and disposing of pressurized and unpressurized cargo for the ISS.
The Dream Chaser system will be launched using a United Launch Alliance Vulcan Centaur rocket from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida. Its flexibility allows it to be ready for launch within 24 hours in case of a mission cancellation or delay.
Sierra Space will perform various in-orbit demonstrations to ensure the Dream Chaser’s readiness for future missions. These demonstrations include far-field maneuvers outside the ISS to showcase its attitude control, translational maneuvers, and abort capabilities. Near-field demonstrations closer to the ISS will involve LIDAR sensors, responding to commands from the station, and holding its approach at different distances.
During the spacecraft’s approach to the ISS, a crew member will utilize the Canadarm2 robotic arm to grapple the cargo module of the Dream Chaser. It is expected to deliver over 7,800 pounds of cargo on its maiden flight to the space station. Additionally, it has been designed to remain attached to the ISS for up to 75 days, enabling it to deliver up to 11,500 pounds of cargo on future missions.
Dream Chaser is capable of bringing back over 3,500 pounds of cargo and disposing of over 8,700 pounds of trash during reentry. Once its mission at the space station is complete, it can be uninstalled and landed within 11 to 15 hours, provided the weather conditions are favorable. The spacecraft will glide to a runway landing at Kennedy’s Launch and Landing Facility in a manner similar to NASA’s retired space shuttles.
Following landing, Sierra Space will transfer the Dream Chaser to the Space System Processing Facility for inspections and preparations for its next mission. Sierra Space was chosen by NASA in 2016 as the third commercial cargo resupply spacecraft for the ISS.
The collaboration between Sierra Space and NASA on the Dream Chaser spacecraft highlights the continued progress of commercial spaceflight capabilities. With its reusable design and ability to deliver and return significant cargo, the Dream Chaser holds promise for future space missions and the advancement of space exploration.
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