Learning This Week: Commercial Space Stations
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Commercial space stations are emerging as the next phase in human activity in low Earth orbit (LEO). These stations are designed to support a variety of activities, including research, manufacturing, and space tourism, and are primarily being developed by private companies.
Significance of Commercial Space Stations
Commercial space stations are expected to fill the gap left by the ISS and provide more flexible and efficient platforms for scientific research and commercial endeavors. They will allow for a broader range of activities and the potential for international partnerships, similar to those established during the ISS era. NASA is actively supporting the development of these stations through its Commercial Low Earth Orbit Development Program, which aims to transition operations from government to private sector management.
Companies involved in CST
Axiom Space
Axiom Space holds a contract with NASA and plans to launch its first module, Axiom Hab One, to the ISS in 2026.
Blue Origin
Blue Origin, founded by Jeff Bezos, is leading the Orbital Reef program in collaboration with Sierra Space, Redwire, and Boeing. Orbital Reef recently completed important testing milestones for its life support system with assistance from NASA. The company is working to develop critical technologies like expandable habitats and 3D printing for commercial space stations.
Starlab
Starlab is being developed by a joint venture between Voyager Space, Nanoracks, Airbus, and Northrop Grumman. The station is expected to launch in 2028 and will feature a large rigid module from Airbus. Starlab has taken significant steps to bring in international partners, recreating the collaborative model of the ISS with companies representing the U.S., Europe, Japan, and Canada as co-owners.
Other notable companies
Others involved in commercial space stations include Boeing, Sierra Space, Redwire, and Northrop Grumman.
NASA is supporting the development of these stations through its Commercial Low Earth Orbit Development Program, which aims to maintain a continuous human presence in low Earth orbit after the ISS retires
Summary
The development of commercial space stations represents a significant shift in how humanity engages with space, moving towards a model that emphasizes private enterprise and international collaboration. As these stations become operational, they will likely play a crucial role in advancing space exploration and the commercialization of low Earth orbit.
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