NASA and Sierra Space Gear Up for Dream Chaser Space Plane's Historic First Flight to ISS

LOUISVILLE, Colorado — As excitement builds, the Sierra Space Dream Chaser spaceplane edges closer to its monumental mission to dock with the International Space Station (ISS). This will mark a significant step in space exploration as the spaceplane prepares for its maiden flight.

Inside the control center, mission controllers are glued to their screens, meticulously analyzing data while a palpable tension fills the air. Every inch of progress is monitored as the uncrewed Dream Chaser approaches the ISS, smoothly transitioning through a series of crucial checkpoints, culminating with its entry into the approach ellipsoid.

During a recent simulation, the advanced Canadarm2 robotic arm successfully grappled the Dream Chaser's Shooting Star cargo module, effectively docking it with the ISS via the Space Station Remote Manipulator System (SSRMS). This simulation is not just practice; it symbolizes the rigorous preparations ahead of the spaceplane’s real flight scheduled for May 2024.

“We’re essentially ringing out procedures,” explained Dream Chaser flight director Jerry Jason. NASA and Sierra Space have conducted nearly a dozen simulations, covering essential operations such as rendezvous, berthing, and reentry procedures, ensuring every detail is accounted for.

Jeremy Owen, chief of the Flight Director Office at Sierra Space, emphasized the critical importance of simulations for the flight control team, describing them as a “unique laboratory.” These immersive training sessions allow both teams to integrate their knowledge and test essential flight controller skills like leadership, teamwork, and emergency response — all vital for handling real-time challenges in space.

To further this training, the simulation incorporated various “failures” that the teams had to navigate, reflecting the unpredictable nature of spacecraft operations. For example, during the simulation, the Dream Chaser encountered a simulated loss of ISS attitude control. Nonetheless, teamwork prevailed, allowing the team to carry out a successful docking despite the setbacks.

The Dream Chaser, named “Tenacity,” is undergoing final preparations at NASA's Space Systems Processing Facility in Kennedy Space Center. The plan includes extensive checks on its propulsion and electrical systems and final thermal protection treatments. Sierra Space's Alex Walker highlighted that NASA is leading the charge on the flight plan as all systems gear up for the launch aboard a Vulcan rocket equipped with a Centaur upper stage.

This meticulous approach to training, dubbed “overload training,” is designed to acclimate operators to high-pressure situations, mirroring the intense environment of an actual flight day. “Our philosophy is to train as you fly, and fly as you train,” explained Jason. He noted that real-world scenarios can drastically differ from simulations, making this preparation all the more critical.

“I've been immersed in space operations for three decades,” Jason reflected. He encouraged the next generation of space enthusiasts, noting, “Today’s advancements in the space sector create incredible opportunities for kids interested in pursuing a career in this field. This era of 'New Space' is like the ultimate video game set against the breathtaking backdrop of our universe.”

As Sierra Space and NASA work together, their collaboration not only highlights the technological advancements of the Dream Chaser program but also reinforces the spirit of innovation that propels humanity further into the cosmos. The excitement surrounding the upcoming flight is palpable, marking what could be a turning point in commercial space exploration.