The Future of Space Stations: Beyond the International Space Station (ISS)
As the International Space Station (ISS) nears the end of its operational lifespan, discussions and planning are underway for its successor. Four different concepts represent the next phase in space exploration and habitation. These involve both radical new designs and modular expansions on the existing ISS. From modular stations designed for incremental growth to ambitious, single-launch structures, here's a closer look at what the next generation of space stations may look like.
Upgrading the ISS: Three Potential Pathways
1. Gateway at Earth-Moon Lagrange Point
The first pathway involves a brand new facility at the Earth-Moon Lagrange point known as the Gateway. This station serves a dual purpose: as a stepping stone for future missions to the Moon, Mars, and beyond. Its modular design allows for flexible expansion, providing a habitat and research platform that can adapt to the needs of upcoming missions. While not an immediate replacement for the ISS, Gateway lays the groundwork for the next generation of space exploration.
2. Haven 1: Using SpaceX Starship
Another approach involves using SpaceX's Starship to build a new habitable structure, named Haven 1. This concept combines the robust launch capabilities of the Starship with existing components from the ISS. Haven 1 aims to provide doubled laboratory space compared to the current ISS, making it a more efficient and habitable environment for scientific research and human habitation. The quick and cost-effective nature of this approach makes it an attractive option for the near future.
3. Combining Both Approaches
The most comprehensive plan involves a hybrid approach, leveraging the advantages of both pathways. By utilizing SpaceX's reusable rockets and Starship's substantial lift capacity, this method not only ensures cost-effective and quick deployment but also maximizes the capabilities of the space station. This combined approach can create a versatile and robust space habitat that can support both immediate and long-term objectives.
Contenders for the Next ISS
Beyond the Gateway and Haven-1, several other space station concepts are being developed or considered for the post-ISS era.
Axiom Station
Axiom Space's modular Axiom Station is the first design to make significant progress. This modular concept allows for expansion with each new module, transforming it from a single module attached to the ISS into a fully independent space station. By the time the Axiom Station has its tower and solar array installed, it can detach from the ISS and operate independently. Axiom Station is designed to be expandable, offering a viable alternative to the ISS with its own independent infrastructure.
Commercial Space Station
Northrop Grumman's Commercial Space Station is a conventional design, significantly smaller than the ISS it intends to replace. However, its compact size and moderate cost make it an attractive option for those seeking a lower-cost space station solution.
Orbital Reef
The Orbital Reef, developed by Blue Origin in partnership with Sierra Nevada, offers a much larger and more capable structure than the Northrop Grumman design. The Orbital Reef is not just a successor to the ISS; it is designed with the potential for numerous applications, from research to commercial ventures. The presence of the Dream Chaser and Boeing Starliner docking with the station provides a robust support network and collaboration environment.
Starlab Project
The Starlab project, a consortium effort involving Nanoracks, Voyager Space, and Lockheed Martin, proposes a modest single-launch design. While this approach is less ambitious in scale, it focuses on providing a cost-effective and straightforward solution. However, its limited size and design may not meet the needs of more extensive research and habitation requirements.
Haven-1 from Vast
Another newcomer to the space station competition is Vast, who have partnered with SpaceX to propose Haven-1. This single-launch station, designed for launch aboard a Falcon-9, offers a minimal viable station in Low Earth Orbit (LEO). However, Vast's ambitions extend far beyond this initial launch. They are actively planning to use Starship's substantial lift capacity to build a much larger and more ambitious structure, known as Haven-1.
The Haven-1 is a cylindrical design with attached solar panels, but it offers a unique feature: artificial gravity. Achieved through rotation around its central axis, Haven-1 simulates increased gravity further from the central "hub," offering a more Earth-like environment. With a total length of 100 meters and an internal volume of several thousand cubic meters, Haven-1 promises to be the most ambitious structure yet. Its modular design, fitting within the Starship's fairing, allows for scalability and expandability.
Conclusion
While these concepts represent just a fraction of the total number of space station designs in the pipeline, they showcase the diverse range of approaches being considered. The future of space stations is likely to be shaped by a combination of innovative design, modular expansion, and the use of advanced launch technologies. As the ISS reaches the end of its operational life, these new concepts offer a glimpse into the exciting possibilities that lie ahead for space exploration and habitation.