Three US Companies to Launch Private Space Station Starlab into Orbit
Discover how Nanoracks, Voyager Space, and Lockheed Martin are pioneering the future of space tourism and research with the upcoming private space station Starlab, set to launch by 2027.
Starlab, a new private space station, will be more compact than the International Space Station (ISS) but designed to welcome space tourists.
Nanoracks, Voyager Space, and Lockheed Martin have jointly announced their plan to develop and deploy Starlab into low Earth orbit. This station aims to advance space tourism and support a wide range of scientific research.
To meet the demands of the US government, international space agencies, and commercial entities, industry leaders are designing Starlab to support the expanding space economy and provide critical services such as materials research, plant cultivation, and astronaut activities.
— Press release from Nanoracks, Voyager Space, and Lockheed Martin
Starlab will accommodate a crew of four and is scheduled for a single-launch deployment, expected in 2027. The station will feature a living module with an internal volume of 340 cubic meters, power and propulsion systems, a laboratory module, and a large external robotic arm for payload servicing.
For perspective, the ISS offers an internal volume of 916 cubic meters, comparable to the size of a Boeing 747 aircraft.
By the time Starlab launches, it may face competition. Axiom Space plans to launch a private module to the ISS in 2024, followed by three additional modules by late 2027. This set of modules could detach from the ISS to operate as an independent commercial space station.
Colorado-based Sierra Space is also developing a private orbital outpost, while Jeff Bezos's Blue Origin has expressed interest in this sector.
NASA envisions these commercial stations as successors to the ISS, which is expected to be retired between 2028 and 2030. The ISS has hosted astronaut crews since November 2000 and is currently authorized to operate through the end of 2024, though many anticipate its operational life will be extended.
Explore useful articles in Technologies as of 27-10-2021. The article titled " Three US Companies to Launch Private Space Station Starlab into Orbit " offers in-depth analysis and practical advice in the Technologies field. Each article is carefully crafted by experts to provide maximum value to readers.
The " Three US Companies to Launch Private Space Station Starlab into Orbit " article expands your knowledge in Technologies, keeps you informed about the latest developments, and helps you make well-informed decisions. Each article is based on unique content, ensuring originality and quality.