NASA partners advance projects for LEO space economy

"Our commercial partners' growing capabilities in low Earth orbit underscore NASA's commitment to advance scientific discovery, pioneering space technology, and support future deep space exploration," said Angela Hart, manager of the Commercial Low Earth Orbit Development Program at NASA's Johnson Space Center.

Through the second Collaborations for Commercial Space Capabilities initiative, NASA is working with seven U.S. companies to meet commercial and governmental needs for LEO operations.

Blue Origin Blue Origin continues its work on an integrated commercial space transportation system designed to provide safe, affordable, and frequent access to orbit for crewed and uncrewed missions.

Northrop Grumman Northrop Grumman is advancing its Cygnus spacecraft as a key platform for logistics and research in LEO. The company recently completed a project management review with NASA, outlining plans to commercialize Cygnus and improve its docking capabilities in collaboration with Starlab Space.

Sierra Space Sierra Space has made progress on its LIFE (Large Integrated Flexible Environment) habitat, a central element of a NASA-funded commercial space station. Recent tests have focused on materials for the air barrier, ensuring they meet permeability and flammability safety standards. Additionally, the company is advancing in micro-meteoroid protection and thermal management technologies.

SpaceX SpaceX continues development of its Starship spacecraft, testing its reusability and operational readiness. Recent flight tests demonstrated critical capabilities for landing and reentry. SpaceX is preparing Starship for crewed lunar missions under NASA's Artemis program.

Special Aerospace Services Special Aerospace Services is creating an Autonomous Maneuvering Unit for in-space servicing, propulsion, and robotics. The company is developing a prototype at its Colorado facility and constructing an assembly site in Huntsville, Alabama.

ThinkOrbital ThinkOrbital demonstrated autonomous in-space welding, a technology essential for building large orbital structures. Upcoming missions will focus on developing robotic arms and advanced inspection tools to enhance LEO construction.

Vast Vast is advancing the Haven-1 space station, completing key milestones like solar array tests and a design review with NASA. The company is working on safety features, including pressure testing a dome-shaped window for the station.

Additional Innovations Two companies are collaborating with NASA through its Small Business Innovation Research Ignite initiative:

- Canopy Aerospace is developing ceramic heat shields and 3D-printed thermal protection systems.

- Outpost Technologies tested a reusable cargo vehicle, demonstrating its ability to autonomously glide and land safely from high altitudes.

NASA's strategy for LEO ensures the continuation of microgravity research and exploration as the International Space Station approaches its operational end. Through these partnerships, NASA aims to maintain leadership in space innovation and extend the benefits of microgravity to humanity.