Shake, rattle and launch: Dream Chaser spaceplane passes vibration test

The Dream Chaser spaceplane has successfully undergone rigorous testing at a NASA facility, simulating the conditions it will experience during launch and reentry, ahead of its upcoming mission to the International Space Station (ISS) this year.

The first spaceplane, named Tenacity, was completed at Sierra Space’s factory in Colorado and then transported to NASA’s Neil Armstrong Test Facility in Ohio. There, it underwent testing at the Mechanical Vibration Facility, which is known as the most powerful spacecraft shaker system in the world. Following this, it will be placed in a large in-ground vacuum chamber to simulate the extreme temperatures and low ambient pressure of space.

Sierra Space’s CEO, Tom Vice, expressed excitement about entering orbital operations for NASA this year, emphasizing the transformative impact on connectivity between Earth and space. The Dream Chaser spaceplane, resembling the iconic Space Shuttle but smaller and equipped with autonomous flight capabilities and a redesigned propulsion system, will be used for up to 15 missions. Sierra Space, previously known as Sierra Nevada Corporation, secured a contract in 2016 to conduct resupply missions for NASA to the ISS.

The first flight of the Dream Chaser will be carried out using the United Launch Alliance Vulcan Centaur rocket, marking a significant milestone for both Sierra Space and NASA’s efforts to establish a private economy in low Earth orbit. Unlike other spacecraft, such as SpaceX’s Crew Dragon, the Dream Chaser can potentially land on a runway, offering a distinctive advantage for potential clients. Sierra Space also has plans to develop versions of the spacecraft for carrying crew.

In addition to its spaceplane endeavors, Sierra Space is also working on the development of a commercial space station known as Orbital Reef, further expanding its presence in the space industry.

Author: OpenAI