Lockheed Martin, Nanoracks and Voyager Space have just entered into a partnership to launch a commercial space station by 2027. Named Starlab, the semi-inflatable platform will be available for the US government and private industry. The goal is for it to be permanently inhabited.
With the International Space Station (ISS) set to be retired by the end of the decade, the United States is looking to the private sector to replace it under the Commercial project NASA's Low-Earth Orbit Destination (CLD). Among the options offered is Starlab. Developed by the trio of companies Lockheed Martin, Nanoracks and Voyager Space, it could be put into orbit as early as 2027 . If the project materializes, then it will be the first ever commercial free-flying space station.
Aboard Starlab, astronauts will be able to conduct all kinds of scientific experiments in microgravity . This work may focus on matter or plant growth. Incidentally, this private station could allow a permanent American presence in space, while China pursues its own program of manned flights.
In its current version, the station consists of a habitat module with an internal volume of about 9 cubic meters, a power element and propulsion, as well as a laboratory. In total, the station will have a volume of 340 m3 and four solar panels totaling 60 kW. Meanwhile, a regenerative environmental control and life support system (ECLSS) will be able to support a permanent crew of four astronauts . A robotic arm will also be available to manage cargo ships and outdoor experiments.
“We are thrilled to be part of such an innovative and capable team, one that empowers every business to leverage its core strengths “, said Lisa Callahan, vice president and general manager at Lockheed Martin. "Lockheed Martin's extensive experience in building complex spacecraft and space systems combined with the business innovation of Nanoracks and the financial expertise of Voyager enables our team to create a customer-focused space station that will fuel our future vision “.
In the long term, remember that Starlab will not be the only private station in orbit. The company Axiom Space notably intends to launch a private module to the ISS from 2024 and three more by the end of 2027 . These modules will then be able to separate from the ISS to operate completely autonomously. Colorado-based Sierra Space is also working on a private orbital outpost in conjunction with Blue Origin.
