New Unmanned Dream Chaser Spacecraft Designed For ISS Missons

Sierra Nevada Corp. (SNC) created a new spacecraft to compete in NASA's latest space vehicle contract. SNC's newest creation is the Dream Chaser Cargo System. This futuristic looking spacecraft is designed to fly back and forth between earth and the International Space Station (ISS) and is planning to do so completely unmanned. The newest model of the Dream Chaser is in the running for NASA's Commercial Resupply Services 2 (CRS2) contract and will be competing against other private companies such as Space X and Boeing.

It's a new spin on the original Dream Chaser Space System. The vehicle line has over 10 years of development. SNC decided to create a new model when NASA excluded their Dream Chaser from the next round of prized NASA government contracts. Now, SNC is looking to get in on the next round of lucrative contracts with their

The Dream Chaser looks a bit like a snub-nosed orca whale. Its black fin-like wings have the ability to fold up, so it can be fit various rocket fairings like the Ariane V rocket. The previous model of the Dream Chaser was designed to hold up to 7 crew members, but this "mission variant" cargo ship can fly completely unmanned, so it won't be needing any life support systems.

One of the most important qualities NASA may be looking for in a spaceship, as they dole out contracts to private firms, is re-usability. The Dream Chaser Cargo System is designed to be reusable with its ability to perform a low-g re-entry and a runway landing. The low-g reentry is designed to protect scientific specimens and cargo alike. It's propulsion systems are non-toxic to maintain the integrity of the spacecraft and anything it carries.

VIA: Gizmag