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A low-Earth orbit presence is expected to be deorbited around 2030. At that time in 2020, there were great anticipation for a much-hyped new yet familiar reusable "space plane" that would dock with the ISS as part of shuttle-style access, according to studies. However, a recent revision to NASA's contract with Sierra Space calls into doubt if that visit will ever take place. The hope of another spaceplane rendezvous may be dimming and falling off the schedule as hurdles pile up and deadlines approach.
Contract Changes and Uncertainty at Dream Chaser
According to Space, NASA has changed its contract with Sierra Space, and as a result of the business organization supporting the robotic Dream Chaser vehicle, some cargo trips to the ISS are no longer guaranteed. The previous contract required Sierra Space to fly a minimum number of freight flights with Dream Chaser and its partner module, Shooting Star.
ISS Timeline and Future Prospects
The ISS is scheduled for deorbit in 2030. The window of opportunity for Dream Chaser to arrive at and assist the station is rapidly approaching. NASA might still authorize flights if the vehicle successfully completes its free-flight demonstration, although this is more speculative than guaranteed.
Private firms, like SpaceX and Northrop Grumman, are already servicing the ISS in line with existing contracts. While NASA prepares for the post-ISS future, the agency is also seeking to develop commercial space stations in low Earth orbit to replace the aging outpost.
However, as time passes, the idea of another spaceplane rendezvousing with the ISS encounters an increasing number of technical, financial, and scheduling challenges. Unless things change rapidly, the vision may remain just that: a vision.
