Dassault Aviation is working on an innovative spacecraft designed to take civilians into space, and their new spacecraft is based on NASA’s X-38 experimental plane.
The new spacecraft is reusable and will be launched off the wing of a commercial aircraft flying at about 25,000 feet in the air.
This new suborbital spacecraft is designed to take up to six passengers at Mach 3.5 up to 62 miles high, which is just on the edge of space. The passengers will then remain in space for just three minutes before gliding back down to Earth. The spacecraft will be able to land like a commercial aircraft.
Technological Innovations and Design
The design of this spacecraft incorporates cutting-edge technology to ensure safety, efficiency, and reusability. By basing the spacecraft on NASA’s X-38 experimental plane, Dassault Aviation leverages proven aerospace engineering principles. The X-38 was originally developed as a crew return vehicle for the International Space Station, known for its robust design and reliability. The new spacecraft will feature advanced thermal protection systems to withstand the intense heat of re-entry and state-of-the-art avionics to ensure precise navigation and control.
The launch method, which involves deploying the spacecraft from a commercial aircraft at 25,000 feet, is a significant innovation. This approach reduces the need for a traditional rocket launch, which is both costly and environmentally taxing. By using a commercial aircraft, the spacecraft can be launched more flexibly and with fewer logistical constraints.
Passenger Experience and Market Potential
The passenger experience is designed to be both thrilling and comfortable. Traveling at Mach 3.5, passengers will experience the exhilaration of high-speed flight and the unique sensation of weightlessness as they reach the edge of space. The spacecraft’s cabin will be equipped with large windows, allowing passengers to take in breathtaking views of Earth and the vastness of space. The three minutes spent in space, although brief, will offer a life-changing perspective and a sense of awe that few have experienced.
There are no details on how much these space flights will cost, but we suspect they will probably cost more than your house. However, as technology advances and the space tourism market grows, prices may become more accessible to a broader audience. Companies like SpaceX and Blue Origin are also working on similar projects, indicating a burgeoning market for civilian space travel. This competition could drive innovation and potentially lower costs over time.
The timeline for when civilians will actually be able to travel into space with Dassault Aviation’s spacecraft remains unclear. Regulatory approvals, rigorous testing, and safety certifications are necessary steps before commercial flights can commence. However, the progress made by Dassault Aviation and other companies in the space tourism industry suggests that the dream of civilian space travel is closer to becoming a reality.
In conclusion, Dassault Aviation’s new spacecraft represents a significant step forward in the field of space tourism. By building on the legacy of NASA’s X-38 and incorporating innovative launch methods, the company is poised to offer a unique and thrilling experience for civilians eager to venture into space. While the cost and timeline remain uncertain, the advancements in technology and growing interest in space travel suggest a promising future for this exciting endeavor.
Gizmodo via Dvice
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