The dreams of Star Wars fans are coming true. Sierra Space has developed a real spacecraft that looks like it came straight out of Star Wars. This new spacecraft, named Dream Chaser, is preparing for its first journey to NASA’s Kennedy Space Center. Let’s get into the details of this exciting news…
The Star Wars-style spacecraft Dream Chaser is preparing for its first mission
The first member of the Dream Chaser fleet, Tenacity, has undergone “rigorous environmental tests” at the Neil Armstrong Test Facility in Ohio. Its first flight will test its cargo-carrying capacity to the International Space Station (ISS). However, the company also plans to transport human astronauts in the future. Before its planned first mission in September, Tenacity will undergo numerous tests before being attached to United Launch Alliance’s Vulcan rocket.
Under a contract with NASA, Dream Chaser is scheduled to conduct seven cargo missions to the ISS. This spacecraft offers an innovative alternative to SpaceX’s Dragon cargo vehicle. Dream Chaser can glide back to Earth without relying on massive parachutes and can land on any runway 10,000 feet (3 kilometers) long. Additionally, it is the first spaceplane built by the private sector.
Currently, the Star Wars-style Dream Chaser is surrounded by heat shields for protection during re-entry and needs to be connected to the expendable cargo module called Shooting Star. Sierra Space has ambitious targets for the September launch date, although the exact duration of the preparation process for the first launch is not yet clear.
Sierra Space’s Dream Chaser bears a strong resemblance to the T-47 Airspeeder from the Star Wars universe. Its aerodynamic structure allows it to glide through the atmosphere and land on runways. Furthermore, Dream Chaser’s multifunctional use reflects the versatility of many spacecraft in the Star Wars films. For instance, the Empire’s Lambda-class T-4a shuttle is used for both cargo and personnel transport, and Dream Chaser offers similar versatility.
Sierra Space states that Dream Chaser has high reusability capacity, capable of performing at least 15 missions. The company believes this spaceplane can undertake more missions. Additionally, Dream Chaser’s design can support various operations in low Earth orbit by speeding up turnaround times between missions. Sierra Space aims to utilize global infrastructure for launches and landings.
Dream Chaser could be a significant source of excitement for both Star Wars fans and space enthusiasts. Do you think we will see more spacecraft like this in the future? Don’t forget to share your thoughts with us…
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