Unlocking the Stars: The Exploration Company’s Vision for Human Spaceflight Revealed

PARIS — The Exploration Company, a European startup, is gearing up for the test flight of its Nyx spacecraft, with plans to eventually carry humans into space. Recently, they showcased a new model at the Paris Air Show.

Nyx is designed to transport cargo, with a key mission planned for the International Space Station (ISS) in 2028, under a program by the European Space Agency (ESA). However, the company is also eyeing a crewed version for future flights. During the showcase, they displayed a model featuring two astronauts alongside cargo.

Victor Maier, the company’s lead for Germany and central Europe, shared that studies for a crewed version have already begun. The enhanced Nyx could carry four to five astronauts and would feature windows and touchscreens, similar to SpaceX’s Crew Dragon.

Maier emphasized the need for the spacecraft to support astronauts during docked missions at the ISS. This positions them well for future human spaceflight certification. However, developing a crewed version could take about ten years and cost around one billion euros ($1.15 billion). To make this happen, support from European governments and ESA is crucial since funding from private entities is inadequate for such an ambitious project.

“This is the moment to decide,” Maier noted, referencing the upcoming ESA ministerial conference in Germany this November. He believes it’s a pivotal opportunity for member states to determine the future of crewed space missions in Europe.

While the crewed version is on the horizon, the company is currently focused on the cargo-capable Nyx. Maier mentioned they have six missions lined up, including one for ESA and others for commercial partners like Axiom Space.

Previously, they attempted their first test flight, called Mission Bikini, last July. Unfortunately, a failure in the rocket’s upper stage prevented the spacecraft from completing its reentry test. Now, they are preparing for Mission Possible, a more extensive test flight set to demonstrate various technologies needed for Nyx. This mission will carry approximately 300 kilograms of cargo, covering a range of purposes, from cosmetics to pharmaceuticals.

Mission Possible will launch on SpaceX’s Transporter-14 mission, which is set for a date around June 21.

According to the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), as of 2023, the space industry is projected to grow significantly, with a focus on commercial applications. A report highlights that the commercial space sector could generate revenues exceeding $1 trillion by 2040. This shift underscores the growing importance of private companies in space exploration.

As for Mission Possible, it will spend only about three hours in orbit before splashing down in the Pacific Ocean. A recovery ship is on its way to the target area to retrieve the spacecraft after it lands.

The Exploration Company does not plan any further test missions before the ISS demonstration but may conduct additional ground tests if needed after Mission Possible.

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