Initial strides toward a future space station
Starlab Space Station Set for Launch in 2028
The space industry is gearing up for a new era with the impending launch of the Starlab space station. This advanced space infrastructure, designed to serve the scientific community, is a joint venture between Airbus Defence and Space and Voyager Space.
The specific timeline for Starlab's launch is set for as early as 2028. The space station is expected to be launched aboard a single SpaceX Starship, thanks to its large, fully integrated habitat and laboratory module, which is beyond the capabilities of other rockets. Unlike the International Space Station (ISS), Starlab will launch fully assembled, rather than being assembled in orbit.
Starlab's vision is to create a sustainable ecosystem in space, conducting over 400 experiments or technical investigations per year. It's intended to expand and engage international participation and customer support, potentially serving as a foundation for continued international cooperation in space.
The ISS, launched in 1998 and inhabited by astronauts since then, has exceeded its original lifetime of 15 years and is planned to be deorbited towards the end of this decade. Starlab, with its smaller habitable volume but comparable scientific capabilities, is designed to be operational before the ISS is retired, ensuring continuity of human presence and research in low Earth orbit.
Airbus, with its extensive expertise in human spaceflight, is at the forefront of this project. The company aims to accelerate a sustainable ecosystem in space with Starlab, just like Voyager Space. Research conducted on the ISS is crucial for human exploration of the Moon, Mars, and the universe, and Starlab is no exception.
NASA is transitioning towards the next generation of continuously crewed, free-flying space stations. Starlab, with its focus on astronaut well-being and operational ease, could provide 100% of the ISS's payload capacity. Its innovative interior design, developed by companies such as Journey and Hilton, aims to create a more livable and productive environment for astronauts.
In conclusion, Starlab targets launch around 2028 via a single Starship launch, launching fully assembled with a smaller habitable volume but comparable scientific capabilities, designed to succeed the ISS, which is planned to retire around 2030 following decades of modular assembly and operation. Starlab aims to create a better future for humanity in space and on Earth.
References: 1. SpaceNews 2. Airbus 3. Voyager Space 4. NASA 5. Journey to Space 6. Hilton 7. SpaceX
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