Space exploration has come a long way since the first satellite launch in 1957. Today, we have spacecraft and rockets capable of exploring the far reaches of our solar system and beyond. As we look to the future, there are many exciting developments in the works for 2023 and beyond.
In this post, we’ll take a closer look at some of the best spacecraft and rockets set to make an impact in 2023.
SLS (Space Launch System)
The Space Launch System (SLS) is a powerful rocket being developed by NASA. The SLS will be the most powerful rocket ever built, capable of launching payloads of up to 130 metric tons into space. The SLS is a critical component of NASA’s Artemis program, which aims to land the first woman and next man on the moon by 2024.
The SLS is set to make its first launch in late 2021, with additional launches planned for 2023 and beyond. The SLS will be used to launch the Orion spacecraft, which will carry astronauts to the moon and beyond.
Starship
The Starship is a spacecraft being developed by SpaceX. The Starship is designed to be fully reusable, with the ability to carry up to 100 people to the moon, Mars, and beyond. The Starship is also capable of carrying cargo, making it an essential component of SpaceX’s plans for Mars colonization.
In 2023, SpaceX plans to conduct the first crewed mission to space using the Starship. The mission will carry a crew of four people on a trip around the moon and back to Earth.
New Glenn
The New Glenn is a rocket being developed by Blue Origin, the space company founded by Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos. The New Glenn is designed to be fully reusable and capable of carrying payloads of up to 45 metric tons into space.
The New Glenn is set to make its first launch in 2021, with additional launches planned for 2023 and beyond. The New Glenn will be used to launch Blue Origin’s own spacecraft, as well as payloads for other customers.
Dream Chaser
The Dream Chaser is a spacecraft being developed by Sierra Nevada Corporation. The Dream Chaser is designed to be a reusable spaceplane, capable of carrying up to seven people and cargo to and from low Earth orbit.
In 2023, the Dream Chaser is set to make its first flight to the International Space Station (ISS) as part of NASA’s Commercial Crew Program. The Dream Chaser will join SpaceX’s Crew Dragon and Boeing’s CST-100 Starliner in transporting astronauts to and from the ISS.
Conclusion
Spacecraft and rockets are critical components of space exploration, and 2023 promises to be an exciting year for both. From the powerful SLS rocket to the innovative Starship spacecraft, these spacecraft and rockets will enable us to explore the universe around us in new and exciting ways. As we look to the future, it’s clear that the best is yet to come for space exploration.