The space industry is undergoing a significant transformation with the development of heavy-lift rockets like SpaceX’s Starship and Blue Origin’s New Glenn. These rockets are expected to revolutionize space exploration by allowing engineers to create larger spacecraft. However, there is a problem: the current testing regime for spacecraft is primarily focused on payloads that are 4 meters or less in diameter, which poses a challenge for companies like Gravitics.
Gravitics is working on developing a line of space station modules ranging from 4 to 8 meters in diameter. These modules are intended to be the building blocks for the next phase of human space exploration. Recognizing the lack of testing and qualification methods for larger spacecraft, Gravitics recently signed an agreement with NASA to address this issue. The agreement entails a range of qualification tests, including thermal, vacuum, vibration, and acoustic testing, to ensure that the spacecraft can withstand the demanding launch environment and the harsh conditions of space.
This collaboration between Gravitics and NASA is crucial not only for Gravitics but also for other private companies looking to populate low Earth orbit with their own space stations. Unlike NASA’s method of assembling the International Space Station over a decade, these companies will likely opt for launching a smaller number of very large modules. By establishing testing standards for large spacecraft, Gravitics and NASA hope to pave the way for the efficient construction and deployment of these private space stations.
Vibration testing is one area that requires particular attention when it comes to large spacecraft. This type of testing simulates the vibrations experienced during launch and ensures that the spacecraft can still function properly afterward. However, the current testing paradigm using shaker rigs is not equipped to handle very large spacecraft or generate the necessary forces to vibrate such massive structures. Additionally, the portability assumptions in the current testing process become more challenging when dealing with an 8-meter spacecraft.
It’s important to note that Gravitics’ new agreement with NASA does not mean that the process will result in a standard that everyone will be bound by. Nor does it imply NASA’s endorsement of Gravitics specifically. However, this collaboration will provide Gravitics with a NASA-approved pathway to launching its own products. If successful, the partnership could lead to the establishment of industry-wide testing approaches and standards for large spacecraft.
The potential impact of this collaboration goes beyond just space station modules. According to Mike DeRosa, Gravitics’ cofounder and CMO, jumbo-sized space station modules, habitats, transports, and other space infrastructure will enhance our capabilities in space. Even space telescopes are expected to grow in size, providing greater value to civilization. Therefore, it is crucial to establish successful testing methods and standards, starting with the work being done by Gravitics.
In conclusion, the collaboration between Gravitics and NASA signifies a proactive approach to address the lack of testing and qualification methods for larger spacecraft. This partnership aims to ensure that future spacecraft, including space station modules and even space telescopes, can be certified for flight. By establishing new testing approaches and standards, Gravitics and NASA are playing a pivotal role in advancing the capabilities of the space industry and paving the way for the next chapter in human space exploration.