Supersonic spaceplane with integrated self-inflating capsule

Sierra Space’s Dream Chaser aircraft features an expandable cabin the size of a 3-story building..

Start-up Sierra Space from Colorado, USA, is growing Dream Catcher as part of its plan to become the largest real estate developer in the space alongside Blue Origin. As planned, the Dream Chaser aircraft will carry out its first passenger mission in 2026. This supersonic aircraft can be reused approximately 15 times, carrying 5,440 kg of cargo or 12 passengers.

Dream Chaser aircraft design.

Dream Chaser aircraft design. (Photo: Espace Sierra).

Amazon founder Jeff Bezos’ aerospace company Blue Origin is cooperating with Sierra Space on the Orbital Reef commercial space station project. The two companies recently launched prototype space station modules as part of a testing campaign. Orbital Reef, one of the private stations intended to replace the International Space Station (ISS), includes space hotels, restaurants and research facilities for businesses and scientists. Once the station is operational in orbit in 2027, people will be able to travel there in a supersonic spaceplane called the Dream Chaser.

In addition to carrying passengers to Orbital Reef, Dream Chaser also transports cargo and crew to the ISS station as part of a $3 billion contract with NASA. This contract is part of NASA’s initiative to reduce its dependence on SpaceX, the only American company currently able to send astronauts to the ISS.

Dream Chaser will be 4 times shorter than NASA’s space shuttle with a total length of more than 9 meters. However, the plane will be included Large Integrated Agile Environment (LIFE). It is a self-inflating residence that can expand to a diameter of 8.2 m, equivalent to a 3-story building. LIFƐ’s soft material can deflect small meteorites and other space debris.

The relatively small size of spaceplanes also offers great advantages. The vehicle can land on any runway that can accommodate a Boeing 747 or Airbus A380. The company’s long-term goal is for Dream Chaser to land on a commercial runway at an international airport. Sierra Space is also building a network of spaceports for Dream Chaser, including Spaceport America in New Mexico, Cornwall, England, and Oita, Japan. After operation, Dream Chaser can fly to the Orbital Reef station in low orbit within 3 days.

Article source: VnExpress