SpaceDev Dream Chaser™ Human Space Transport System Designed

SpaceDev ^ | 05/12/05 | Mike Graff/Stephanie Schroeder

[KevinDavis]

POWAY, CA (May 12, 2005) – SpaceDev (OTCBB: SPDV) has nearly completed a small, NASA funded preliminary study that defines a safe, affordable launch system for transportation of six passengers between Earth and low earth orbits. The launch system propulsion modules would be scaled-up versions of SpaceDev’s non-explosive hybrid rocket motors. SpaceDev’s proprietary hybrid rocket motor technology successfully powered SpaceShipOne on its history making flights to space. The SpaceDev Dream Chaser™ space transportation system would be based on a combination of existing and proven technologies and designs.

“These results are very exciting and we believe even more strongly that SpaceDev can quickly develop a safe and affordable space transportation system based on existing propulsion technologies and vehicle designs,” said Jim Benson, SpaceDev’s founding chairman and CEO. “By combining existing technologies and designs in a unique and innovative manner, we believe we can reduce cost, risk and time to market for commercially viable human space transport.”

Last September, SpaceDev announced it had signed a Space Act agreement with NASA Ames Research Center to explore various designs for safe, affordable sub-orbital and orbital human space flight. SpaceDev’s initial study analyzed and compared various higher performance hybrid-based propulsion modules and passenger vehicle designs. Detailed, comparative launch trajectory and re-entry analyses were performed in conjunction with the NASA Ames thermal protection team in order to evaluate the performance requirements for the propulsion modules, and to define a thermal protection system design that would provide the cost, performance and safety necessary for routine passenger flights to low orbit and back.

[KevinDavis]

Good Choice....

[KevinDavis]

[Viking2002]

Any concept drawings out yet?

[Zuben Elgenubi]

This was a hot stock back in May/June 2004. Trading OB at $1.58 x 500 now.

[FormerACLUmember]

[Alas Babylon!]

How will this handle reentry? Looks kinda flimsy for good heat abatement/deflection.

[FormerACLUmember]

The whole thing looks seriously bogus.

[FormerACLUmember]

see post 5

[Jambe]

Looks like something my kids make with Lego's !!!!

[mmercier]

Interesting stuff. Space flight for tourists will likely be the route through which funding will be obtained for the programs that are really important.

What is needed is leasable zero g manufacturing facilities. In order for this to become financially plausible we will probably have to start here. The potential benefit to humanity is incalculable, this route will show potential investors that this is attainable and possible with current technology.

I like the idea of a "space elevator", envisioned by the inventor of the concept of the communications satellite, Arthur C. Clark.

[Viking2002]

The airframe isn't quite as innovative as I've thought it would be, even with recycling proven technology, but I like the elimination of the external fuel and propulsion sources. That in itself is a healthy stride forward beyond current spacecraft design. I'm waiting for the day when someone develops a reliable, single stage, reuseable vehicle with a quick landing-to-launch turnaround time. Then even 40+ farts like us can have our little Star Trek fantasies, and dare think it's within reason.

[Brett66]

The resulting study development plan includes milestones for multiple manned sub-orbital test flights by 2008, and manned test flights to orbit by 2010.

Wow, I hope they could meet this schedule. Space Race 2 is in high gear.

[KevinDavis]

I think they will....

[Brett66]

Looks like another player in the space tourism market:

AERA Announces Ticket Sales and Target Window for First Commercial Launch December 2006