SNC taps AZUR SPACE to produce cargo Dream Chaser solar panels
Artist’s rendition of Dream Chaser near the International Space Station. Image Credit: Nathan Koga / SpaceFlight Insider
Sierra Nevada Corporation has tapped AZUR SPACE Solar Power GmbH to provide solar panels for the first Dream Chaser cargo spacecraft. The announcement was made via a release issued by AZUR SPACE, denoting that the new, automated shuttle is getting ready for its first flight – currently slated to take to the skies in 2019.
Under the second phase of NASA’s Commercial Resupply Services contract (CRS2), the cargo version of Dream Chaser is tasked with conducting at least six flights to the International Space Station between 2019 and 2024.
AZUR SPACE will produce the 3G30C-Advanced solar cells at their facilities located in Ottobrunn, Germany.
“We are very pleased with the selection of the AZUR SPACE team,” stated Mr. Paul Streit, Senior Vice President at SNC’s Space Systems business area. “The AZUR SPACE team has demonstrated excellent execution on other programs over the last couple of years. We are delighted to continue working with AZUR SPACE.”
According to information provided by the company, AZUR SPACE has produced aerospace organizations with multi-junction solar cells for the last 15 years.
“Our 100 percent mission success, extensive in-orbit heritage working with Airbus combined with our cell manufacturing expertise, next-generation technology commitment, and unparalleled reliability will continue to make AZUR SPACE the leading choice for power solutions in the worldwide satellite industry,” said Mr. Juergen Heizmann, Managing Director at AZUR SPACE. “This is a significant step forward for the AZUR SPACE team in demonstrating performance, heritage, and best value. We are truly excited to work with SNC to make the Dream Chaser program a major success.”
Jason Rhian
Jason Rhian spent several years honing his skills with internships at NASA, the National Space Society and other organizations. He has provided content for outlets such as: Aviation Week & Space Technology, Space.com, The Mars Society and Universe Today.
Reader Comments