Next Generation Crew Capsules - Orion vs Dream Chaser
As space technology continues to progress at a rapid pace, many companies are competing to create the best crew capsules for use in space missions. Two of the leading contenders in this race are the Orion and Dream Chaser capsules, both of which are expected to play a significant role in future space missions.
Orion Capsule
The Orion capsule, developed by NASA and Lockheed Martin, is designed to carry humans into deep space. The capsule has a pressurized cabin that can support up to four astronauts for up to 21 days, helping make it ideal for long-duration missions. The capsule measures 16.5 feet in diameter and weighs 26,000 pounds.
The crew module of the Orion capsule features radiation protection, an environmental control and life support system, and a guidance, navigation, and control system that allows astronauts to fly themselves to the International Space Station (ISS) or other destinations. The service module provides propulsion and support functions such as power, air, and water.
In terms of progress, the Orion capsule has already completed several tests, including a successful uncrewed flight test in 2019. The next phase is expected to be the first crewed flight, currently scheduled for 2023.
Dream Chaser Capsule
The Dream Chaser capsule, developed by Sierra Nevada Corporation, is also designed to carry crews into space. However, its primary focus is on low Earth orbit (LEO) missions, such as the transportation of cargo and astronauts to the ISS. The capsule is designed to fly up to seven crew members, with a pressurized cabin that measures 10 feet in diameter and weighs 30,000 pounds.
The Dream Chaser capsule features an innovative lifting body design that enables it to land on a runway like an airplane, rather than a soft landing like the Orion. This feature makes it easier to recover and reuse the capsule. The capsule also has a hybrid propulsion system that combines a liquid rocket engine and a hybrid reaction control system.
The Dream Chaser's design makes it unique in comparison to other crew capsules currently in development. It has the ability to hold a variety of specialized payloads, making it useful for a wide range of space missions beyond just transporting crew and cargo.
The Dream Chaser capsule has already undergone several tests, including captive carry, drop, and approach and landing tests. It is expected to make its first uncrewed flight to the ISS in 2022, with a crewed flight scheduled for 2023.
Comparison
When comparing the Orion and Dream Chaser capsules, it's clear that they have different strengths and focuses. The Orion capsule is designed for deep space missions, with a larger and more robust design, meant to withstand the rigors of space travel. The Dream Chaser capsule, on the other hand, is smaller, more agile, and better suited to low Earth orbit missions.
Another major difference between the two capsules is their landing methods. The Orion capsule uses a soft landing method, while the Dream Chaser has the ability to land on a runway like a plane, which is more efficient, cost-effective, and makes it easier to recover and reuse the capsule.
Overall, both the Orion and Dream Chaser capsules have their unique features and advantages. Depending on the specific mission requirements for crew transport, from LEO to deep space, one capsule may be a better choice than the other.