June 7, 2019RELEASE 19-044NASA Opens International Space Station to New Commercial Opportunities, Private AstronautsNASA is opening the International Space Station for commercial business so U.S. industry innovation and ingenuity can accelerate a thriving commercial economy in low-Earth orbit.This move comes as NASA focuses full speed ahead on its goal of landing the first woman and next man on the Moon by 2024, where American companies also will play an essential role in establishing a sustainable presence.NASA officials, including the agency’s Chief Financial Officer Jeff DeWit, will discuss details of the five-part near-term plan in a news conference at 10 a.m. EDT today. The news conference will air live on NASA Television and the agency’s website.NASA will continue research and testing in low-Earth orbit to inform its lunar exploration plans, while also working with the private sector to test technologies, train astronauts and strengthen the burgeoning space economy. Providing expanded opportunities at the International Space Station to manufacture, market and promote commercial products and services will help catalyze and expand space exploration markets for many businesses.The agency’s ultimate goal in low-Earth orbit is to partner with industry to achieve a strong ecosystem in which NASA is one of many customers purchasing services and capabilities at lower cost.NASA’s plan addresses both the supply-side and demand-side for a new economy, enabling use of government resources for commercial activities, creating the opportunity for private astronaut missions to the space station, enabling commercial destinations in low-Earth orbit, identifying and pursuing activities that foster new and emerging markets, and quantifying NASA’s long-term demand for activities in low-Earth orbit.Commercial Activities Aboard the Space StationMore than 50 companies already are conducting commercial research and development on the space station via the International Space Station U.S. National Laboratory, and their results are yielding great promise. In addition, NASA has worked with 11 different companies to install 14 commercial facilities on the station that support research and development projects for NASA and the ISS National Lab.This effort is intended to broaden the scope of commercial activity on the space station beyond the ISS National Lab mandate, which is limited to research and development. A new NASA directive will enable commercial manufacturing and production and allow both NASA and private astronauts to conduct new commercial activities aboard the orbiting laboratory. The directive also sets prices for industry use of U.S. government resources on the space station for commercial and marketing activities.Pricing released Friday is specific to commercial and marketing activities enabled by the new directive, reflects a representative cost to NASA, and is designed to encourage the emergence of new markets. As NASA learns how these new markets respond, the agency will reassess the pricing and amount of available resources approximately every six months and make adjustments as necessary.To qualify, commercial and marketing activities must either:require the unique microgravity environment to enable manufacturing, production or development of a commercial application;have a connection to NASA’s mission; orsupport the development of a sustainable low-Earth orbit economy.NASA’s directive enabling commercial and marketing activities aboard the space station addresses manufacturing, production, transportation, and marketing of commercial resources and goods, including products intended for commercial sale on Earth. NASA astronauts will be able to conduct coordinated, scheduled and reimbursable commercial and marketing activities consistent with government ethics requirements aboard the station.To ensure a competitive market, NASA initially is making available five percent of the agency’s annual allocation of crew resources and cargo capability, including 90 hours of crew time and 175 kg of cargo launch capability, but will limit the amount provided to any one company.Private Astronaut MissionsNASA also is enabling private astronaut missions of up to 30 days on the International Space Station to perform duties that fall into the approved commercial and marketing activities outlined in the directive released Friday, with the first mission as early as 2020. A new NASA Research Announcement focus area issued today outlines the path for those future private astronaut missions.If supported by the market, the agency can accommodate up to two short-duration private astronaut missions per year to the International Space Station. These missions will be privately funded, dedicated commercial spaceflights. Private astronaut missions will use a U.S. spacecraft developed under NASA’s Commercial Crew Program.The commercial entity developing the mission will determine crew composition for each mission and ensure private astronauts meet NASA’s medical standards and the training and certification procedures for International Space Station crew members. Market studies identified private astronaut missions to low-Earth orbit as a key element to demonstrate demand and reduce risk for future commercial destinations in low-Earth orbit.Commercial Destinations in Low-Earth OrbitIn the long-term, NASA’s goal is to become one of many customers purchasing services from independent, commercial and free-flying habitable destinations in low-Earth orbit. A robust low-Earth orbit economy will need multiple commercial destinations, and NASA is partnering with industry to pursue dual paths to that objective that either go through the space station or directly to a free-flying destination.As a first step, NASA is making one space station port and utilities available for industry to attach a commercial module to support commercial activities, and today is releasing a synopsis as Appendix I in NASA’s Next Space Technologies for Exploration Partnerships (NextSTEP) 2 Broad Agency Announcement (BAA). NASA expects to release the solicitation June 14, with awards made by the end of the fiscal year. The forward port of the station’s Harmony module will be available to industry for a finite period of time.NASA will follow up with a synopsis for NextSTEP 2 Appendix K in July to partner with industry in the development of future free-flying commercial stations in low-Earth orbit.Stimulate Sustainable DemandNASA continues to seek and pursue opportunities to stimulate sustainable commercial demand in low-Earth orbit and, to that end, has added two new focus areas to the NASA Research Announcement soliciting proposals for commercial concepts. these focus areas include in-space manufacturing, regenerative medicine, bioengineering, and other fields that may lead to a scalable, financially self-sustaining demand for low-Earth orbit capabilities.In addition, NASA is seeking targeted studies to better understand real and perceived barriers of potential new market entrants and to address broad ideas which could help stimulate demand. Successful proposals will define the path to broadly foster market growth, provide data-driven rationale to support the defined path, and lead to recommendations on which NASA, industry or other organizations could act. More details are available in the synopsis for NextSTEP 2 BAA Appendix J. NASA expects to release the solicitation for Appendix J on June 14 with awards made by the end of the fiscal year.NASA also is working to increase the research and development community’s understanding of the potential value of microgravity research and the path to conducting research in low-Earth orbit by coordinating across the microgravity community to lower barriers to entry and refinement of research via drop towers, parabolic, and suborbital flights.Quantify NASA’s Long-term DemandNASA is providing a forecast of its minimum long-term, low-Earth orbit requirements, representing the type and amount of services that NASA intends to purchase when those services become commercially available. The goal is to reduce uncertainty for commercial destination providers about NASA as a customer, and to help them make decisions about which NASA requirements they are interested in fulfilling.NASA also is providing details and estimated quantities for NASA crew accommodation, human research, biological and physical science research, technology demonstrations, and hosted science instruments. In addition, NASA intends to continue purchasing services for a national laboratory capability in low-Earth orbit. For example, NASA’s strategy research in the areas of space biology, physical sciences, and fundamental physics is driven by recommendations from the National Academy of Sciences (NAS). Fundamental research and applied exploration research are not mutually exclusive, and advances in one area often enable advancements in the other. NASA’s Space Life and Physical Sciences Research Applications division has identified the highest research priorities for long-term use of low-Earth orbit: in life sciences, the priorities are studies of plants, model organisms, and of the microbiome of the built environment; and in physical sciences, the priorities are studies into combustion and phase change-associated energy transfer.To improve the agency’s five-part plan and its effectiveness, NASA is seeking feedback from industry and others through a request for information, with responses due by July 3.For more than 18 years, humans have lived and worked aboard the International Space Station, conducting thousands of experiments in areas such as human research, biology, and physical science, as well as advanced technology development. Many of these experiments, conducted via the ISS National Lab, have been research and development with commercial objectives. New opportunities are needed to move beyond research and development, and the station will play an essential role in enabling those opportunities for new commercial markets needed to build a sustainable ecosystem in low-Earth orbit.Learn more about opportunities for commercial activities aboard the International Space Station:https://www.nasa.gov/leo-economy/low-earth-orbit-economy-end-
This would be quite an impressive step forward if/when it happens:https://twitter.com/BigelowSpace/status/1137012892191076353
Do we know if these are Nasa flights or private Space X flights?
Quote from: kevinof on 06/07/2019 04:37 pmDo we know if these are Nasa flights or private Space X flights? I’d be very surprised if NASA is contracting the flights, seems to go against the whole ethos of what they are trying to achieve. Also the Bigelow tweet reads to me as Bigelow has paid deposits to SpaceX.
Interesting if that's the case. It's Space X starting to find customers outside of Nasa for Crew Dragon and make use of used D2's.
The sight of senior NASA officials pitching the nation's premiere space asset to private companies at the Nasdaq stock exchange this morning is a Reagan-era dream come true:wired.com/story/nasa-wen…
NASA will also allow commercial crew providers to transport private astronauts to the station. The agency will allow two such astronauts per year on the station for missions no longer than 30 days each. Those astronauts will be charged about $35,000 per day by NASA for use of station resources, like life support, as well as the fees charged by the companies arranging the flights.
Quote from: SNNASA will also allow commercial crew providers to transport private astronauts to the station. The agency will allow two such astronauts per year on the station for missions no longer than 30 days each. Those astronauts will be charged about $35,000 per day by NASA for use of station resources, like life support, as well as the fees charged by the companies arranging the flights.https://spacenews.com/nasa-releases-iss-commercialization-plan/
I'll need to find time to read more of the official documents. But with Bigelow's involvement, I'm not clear on what will hopefully benefit them more. Getting seats paid for trips to station are fine. Given their business, is this going to be a push to add a private habitat of their design (customized for station mass and available ports) or just for funds to whet the whistles of tourists or private investors flying up and only using spacecraft and ISS resources?Either way, it's a fascinating series of events.
As a first step, NASA is making one space station port and utilities available for industry to attach a commercial module to support commercial activities, and today is releasing a synopsis as Appendix I in NASA’s Next Space Technologies for Exploration Partnerships (NextSTEP) 2 Broad Agency Announcement (BAA). NASA expects to release the solicitation June 14, with awards made by the end of the fiscal year. The forward port of the station’s Harmony module will be available to industry for a finite period of time.NASA will follow up with a synopsis for NextSTEP 2 Appendix K in July to partner with industry in the development of future free-flying commercial stations in low-Earth orbit.
With only one port up for grabs and two competitors its winner take all. The alternative is Bigelow and Axiom share port by joining their two modules. They can still compete while sharing resources.
With only one port up for grabs and two competitors its winner take all.
Interesting if that's the case. It's Space X starting to find customers outside of Nasa for Crew Dragon and make use of used D2's.Quote from: FutureSpaceTourist on 06/07/2019 04:45 pmQuote from: kevinof on 06/07/2019 04:37 pmDo we know if these are Nasa flights or private Space X flights? I’d be very surprised if NASA is contracting the flights, seems to go against the whole ethos of what they are trying to achieve. Also the Bigelow tweet reads to me as Bigelow has paid deposits to SpaceX.
Review of NASA's International Space Station Plans, House Space Subcommittee, July 10, 2019On July 10, 2019, the House Subcommittee on Space And Aeronautics held a hearing titled, "A Review of NASA’s Plans for the International Space Station and Future Activities in Low Earth Orbit." Invited witnesses were:William H. GerstenmaierAssociate Administrator, Human Exploration and Operations Mission Directorate, National Aeronautics and Space AdministrationPaul K. MartinInspector General, National Aeronautics and Space AdministrationProfessor Joanne Irene GabrynowiczEmerita University of Mississippi, Editor-in-Chief Emerita, Journal of Space LawEric W. StallmerPresident, Commercial Spaceflight FederationThe event was webcast live and is in the public domain. The event's web page ishttps://science.house.gov/hearings/a-review-of-nasas-plans-for-the-international-space-station-and-future-activities-in-low-earth-orbit
With Crew Dragon, Starliner, now Dragon 2 and later Dream Chaser all using the two available PMA/IDA docking ports, I wonder if it's not time to convert one CBM to a docking port with a new adapter module. Especially as additional crew flights with commercial astronauts were announced just recently. Are just two docking ports enough to handle all those visiting vehicles?
In a briefing at KSC on commercial crew and LEO commercialization, NASA’s Sam Scimemi says the agency is still evaluating what the $15M in FY20 for LEO commercialization (vs $150M requested) means for that overall initiative.
Less than a year after rolling out a broad strategy for supporting commercial activity in low Earth orbit, NASA is working to revise that strategy while restructuring its management of commercial initiatives.
UAE to select next astronauts in January (that may fly on commercial crew):Quote from: Jeff Foust“While they are training, we will be looking at the different options for flights and select the most suitable for us going forward,” he said [Salem AlMarri, the head of the UAE astronaut program], That could include flights on Russian Soyuz spacecraft as well as SpaceX’s Crew Dragon and Boeing’s CST-100 Starliner. “We plan through next year to look at trying to get different opportunities to secure a seat for one of our astronauts.” https://spacenews.com/uae-to-select-next-astronauts-in-january/
“While they are training, we will be looking at the different options for flights and select the most suitable for us going forward,” he said [Salem AlMarri, the head of the UAE astronaut program], That could include flights on Russian Soyuz spacecraft as well as SpaceX’s Crew Dragon and Boeing’s CST-100 Starliner. “We plan through next year to look at trying to get different opportunities to secure a seat for one of our astronauts.”
Related to the post above:NASA Announces Intent to Procure a Future Short Duration Spaceflight Opportunity:https://www.nasa.gov/feature/nasa-announces-intent-to-procure-a-future-short-duration-spaceflight-opportunity
Announcement of Opportunity: Commercial Exploitation of ETC (European Transport Carrier) Replacement on ISS ColumbusESA is preparing an upgrade of the passive Columbus D4 rack position currently occupied by the European Transport Carrier (ETC). Based on extended accommodation needs for further Class 2 payloads in Columbus, this location will be upgraded to an active rack location/platform. This new Columbus infrastructure item is named 'ETC Replacement' aimed to provide basic resources such as power, thermal control, and physical accommodation to current and future experiment and technology demonstration devices. Data routing will be achieved via MPCC.Commercial development and exploitationThe ETC Replacement is planned to be developed in the frame of an Invitation to Tender (ITT), published on EMITS under the new reference AO 1-10351/20/NL/PG/eg (re-issued) with a deadline for submissions no later than 6 July 2020 (extended). At the same time, ESA is interested in the commercial development and exploitation of the ETC Replacement facility as a commercial service, however the preferred approach has not been selected.
One year ago @NASA announced the @Space_Station is open for business. Learn about the progress we've made in the last year, including agreements with @Axiom_Space and @virgingalactic to enable private astronaut missions ➡️ nasa.gov/press-release/…
June 22, 2020NASA Moving Forward to Enable a Low-Earth Orbit EconomyOne year ago, NASA announced the agency is opening the space station for business, enabling commercial and marketing opportunities on the station, and the agency has moved forward toward its ultimate goal in low-Earth orbit to partner with industry to achieve a strong ecosystem in which NASA is one of many customers purchasing services and capabilities at lower cost. Providing expanded opportunities at the International Space Station to manufacture, market and promote commercial products and services will help catalyze and expand space exploration markets for many businesses.The new policy includes activities that can be as simple as a product pictured in space for use in marketing materials or a company flying and returning commemorative or other items to be sold after having been in space. NASA crew members on the station also can support these activities behind the scenes. The key is that the activity must require the unique microgravity environment, have a nexus to the NASA mission, or support the development of a sustainable low-Earth orbit economy.U.S. entities can continue to submit proposals for such activities. NASA has received five proposals so far for commercial and marketing opportunities on the station, and the first of those agreements is already now at the station, launched on the SpaceX CRS-20 mission. The agency has two signed Reimbursable Space Act Agreements (RSAA), is processing two, and is evaluating one more. NASA is making available annually 90 hours of crew time and 175 kg of cargo launch capability but will limit the amount provided to any one company.NASA also enabled private astronaut missions to the station, ensuring the ability to accommodate two missions each year at the space station of up to 30 days duration. The agency has an agreement in place with KBR to train private astronauts using NASA facilities. NASA has an agreement with Axiom Space for developing plans to enable private astronaut missions to the space station. In addition, the agency signed an agreement with Virgin Galactic as it develops a program to identify candidates interested in purchasing private astronaut missions to the station then procures the transportation, on-orbit resources, and ground resources for private astronaut missions.Axiom Space and SpaceX made a separate agreement for a future private astronaut mission to the station. And SpaceX also announced an agreement for another private astronaut mission not to the space station, an example of NASA enabling a broader market in space. Axiom’s partnership with SpaceX for a private astronaut mission and Virgin Galactic’s plans to develop a new private orbital astronaut readiness program directly support NASA’s broad strategy to facilitate the commercialization of low-Earth orbit by U.S. entities.NASA awarded a contract to Axiom Space to provide at least one habitable commercial module to be attached to the International Space Station. NASA also intends to support development of free-flying commercial destinations with release of a solicitation soon.These companies are willing to make these commitments because they can see the long-term potential to sell services to both the U.S. government and to private citizens. They are putting their private capital at risk in these developments for future profit, whether from the U.S. government flying astronauts, or other missions for private astronauts.NASA also is providing seed money for seven proposals to enable enterprising companies to mature their concepts and stimulate scalable demand for existing and future platforms in space. One example is the work LambdaVision is doing to produce protein-based artificial retinas in space that would be returned to Earth for surgical implant to restore sight for patients suffering from degenerative retinal diseases.At release, NASA provided a forecast of its minimum long-term, low-Earth orbit requirements, representing the type and amount of services that NASA intends to purchase when those services become commercially available. Creating a robust economy in low-Earth orbit will be dependent on bringing many new companies and people into that economy, and will require the development of not only the supply of services but also the demand for those capabilities. We are continuing to see new entrants enabled by the new commercial use policy, and via research and development being conducted through the ISS National Laboratory. NASA continues to work with industry to reduce areas of uncertainty regarding the future of these commercial activities.NASA’s goal is to achieve a robust economy in low-Earth orbit from which the agency can purchase services as one of many customers. A robust commercial space economy ensures national interests for research and development in low-Earth orbit are fulfilled while allowing NASA to focus government resources on deep space exploration through the Artemis program and land the first woman and next man on the surface of the Moon in 2024.Last Updated: June 22, 2020Editor: Michael Johnson
Roscosmos says two space tourists will fly to the ISS on a Soyuz in 2023.
Between RKK #Энергия and company #SpaceAdventures a contract was signed for a short-term expedition of two space flight participants to the ISS - roscosmos.ru/28730/🚀 The launch on the Soyuz MS ship will take place in 2023
Hart: working on enabling LEO commercialization per Appendix I and J.Won't be moving forward on Appendix K for now.
Hart: private astronaut missions (PAMs). Have Space Act Agreements in place already. 2 mission specific proposals under evaluation today. Can't go into details but very exciting. Looking at 2 short duration missions/year, 10-30 day missions.
“We definitely want to do a free-flyer acquisition,” said Phil McAlister, director of commercial spaceflight programs at NASA, in the same panel. “I can’t promise any specific timelines associated with that, but we are definitely working on the free flyer and intend to release a solicitation soon on that once we get our strategy all agreed to internally.”
Gerstenmaier warns against ending space station program prematurelyby Jeff Foust — September 8, 2020WASHINGTON — The former head of NASA’s human spaceflight program, now working as a consultant to SpaceX, said he welcomes greater commercial activity in low Earth orbit but cautioned against ending the International Space Station prematurely.
OIG announces review of NASA’s Commercialization of Low Earth Orbit.
A multinational crew composed of three private astronauts and @CommanderMLA have now officially signed with Axiom. In other words: the first private crew to go to orbit in human history – the crew of Ax-1 – has been assembled. Mission launches NET late 2021. More details soon.
I’m so grateful for this opportunity; we’re going to have a #Blast!
NASA hikes prices for commercial ISS users:https://spacenews.com/nasa-hikes-prices-for-commercial-iss-users/Updated pricing policy:https://www.nasa.gov/leo-economy/commercial-use/pricing-policy
Quote from: yg1968 on 03/05/2021 12:48 amNASA hikes prices for commercial ISS users:https://spacenews.com/nasa-hikes-prices-for-commercial-iss-users/Updated pricing policy:https://www.nasa.gov/leo-economy/commercial-use/pricing-policySounds like a nice time polishing off that old Dragon Lab/ Cygnus Lab and commerical free flyer station.
NASA has posted the slides for its industry briefing later today on commercial LEO destinations. Key takeaway: they now plan to award several funded Space Act Agreements for initial concept studies, then purchase “destination services” when available. https://procurement.jsc.nasa.gov/CLD/
NASA forecast of having 2 astronauts permanently on commercial station may sound like downsize from current 3-4. In fact its not from research point of view. Current ISS crew spent large part of their time maintaining ISS, on commercial station it will be owner's crew responsibility. Sent from my SM-G570Y using Tapatalk
NASA forecast of having 2 astronauts permanently on commercial station may sound like downsize from current 3-4. In fact its not from research point of view. Current ISS crew spent large part of their time maintaining ISS, on commercial station it will be owner's crew responsibility.
https://twitter.com/jeff_foust/status/1374409475616960523Quote NASA has posted the slides for its industry briefing later today on commercial LEO destinations. Key takeaway: they now plan to award several funded Space Act Agreements for initial concept studies, then purchase “destination services” when available. https://procurement.jsc.nasa.gov/CLD/
Media Teleconference: 1st Private Astronaut Mission with Axiom Space:
Jebbo sorry but in my opinion you are looking at the wrong thing. You look at sleeping quarters, while the thing you have to look at is ECLSS systems capability. To show you graphically I've updated the system rack topology.
I think the important thing to do in the ISS is micro gravity research/science/production. Not accommodating for as many as possible visiting and micro-G ruining astronauts/tourists.In my opinion space tourism and microG science can't be combined in the same station.
....I'm hoping there will be multiple stations soon: not just for tourism, but some industrial protoyping stuff (e.g. fibre optics)--- Tony
Quote from: jebbo on 07/24/2021 05:44 am....I'm hoping there will be multiple stations soon: not just for tourism, but some industrial protoyping stuff (e.g. fibre optics)--- TonyLet the SX-Starship fly! Each SS in orbit can and will be a big spacestation for many weeks!
Fun fact: 20 percent of the research payloads on ISS, for the entire history of the station, have been flown and operated in the last 2 years.
Question: Oooh, that is a fun fact! What accounts for that increase?Answer: Being a ground systems guy, I'm not the best positioned to know, but from the discussions I am part of:1. Commercial Crew allows additional crew time for payload ops = more payloads2. Commercial cargo capabilities are helping us fly more payloads, especially sorties.3. Continuing push of ISS as research platform/commercialization/commercial partners4. we're getting a lot of new payloads, rather than repeats/refly/tweaks to existing payloads.For the team here at ISS Payload Ops, the big story is that we've been able to support this huge increase while supporting in our pandemic posture.
NASA has updated the Private Astronaut Mission Flight Opportunities synopsis with postings of Pre-Proposal presentation charts, attendees & interested parties list, and Q&As.https://sam.gov/opp/5b970d59bbe848fb89d88502e1d74b2a/viewCopies of documents attached.
4) Question: This NRA [NASA Research Announcement] requires a USOS ride - can a proposal address an alternative or propose a vehicle other than a Crew Dragon?Answer: Yes. Proposals may address alternatives or propose vehicles other than a Crew Dragon. If the PAM Provider contracts with a Transportation Provider other than a certified USCV additional NASA assessment and agreement may have to be negotiated and finalized prior to execution of a contractual instrument or agreement. Prospective proposers that propose a transportation vehicle, such as a Crew Dragon, alternative or otherwise, must meet the requirements of Section 2.2 of PACE Annex 1, and any additional expense for NASA to verify that the vehicle meets requirements will be incurred by the PAM Provider.5) Question: If SpaceX chooses not to engage with anyone on the procurement of a ride other than their already announced agreement and Boeing doesn't have a certified vehicle available, how would you suggest anyone other than Axiom propose to this NRA [NASA Research Announcement]?Answer: NASA cannot address any questions associated with proposal partnerships or competition sensitive data. Proposals will be evaluated based on capability to meet requirements as outlined in the NRA solicitation. For any areas that are still in work, proposers should outline their future plans to meet requirements.
Ecology Mir GroupAxiom SpaceSierra SpaceSTAR HARBOR Space AcademyNanoracksSpaceXAdeco LLCSpace HeroShuttle.ioEcoatomsKBRBlue OriginMAXARAurora Flight SciencesSpace AdventuresSpace.comBoeing
...It seems from the text of question 4 that SpaceX has an exclusive deal with Axiom for private astronaut missions to the ISS.
I will add my comment to this news. This is a big deal. It shows again that there is indeed a commercial market for space. Congrats to the UAE and Axiom! Hopefully, other countries will follow! Very exciting news!
Jebbo sorry but in my opinion you are looking at the wrong thing. You look at sleeping quarters, while the thing you have to look at is ECLSS systems capability. To show you graphically I've updated the system rack topology.You only looked at the orange racks, direct crew utility racks like the crew quarters, CASA, Galley rack, T2 treadmill and most likely the lavatory (WHC).What you're overlooking is all the green and blue racks. This is what is limiting the ISS crew for longtherm at 7 astronauts. I don't have the full picture of the ECLSS system capabilities. I expect Water recovery is the most limiting. Indeed the Axiom Hab modules will provide all facilities for four crew members. So they require:- 4x Crew quarter- Lavatory- most likely another Galley- a OGS (Oxygen Generation System)- a CO2 scrubber / ARS (Air Revitalization System) [also humidity control / water condenser]- a TCS (Thermal Control System)- most likely a water recovery systemAs a result of all these required systems, these modules can only accommodate the equivalence of two ISPR/ER-xB (Basic Express Racks) for science.I think the important thing to do in the ISS is micro gravity research/science/production. Not accommodating for as many as possible visiting and micro-G ruining astronauts/tourists.In my opinion space tourism and microG science can't be combined in the same station.
Either Dragon has 5th seat or NASA is giving up one of their seats. Sent from my SM-G570Y using Tapatalk
This is the Falcon 9 seat that Axiom Space got in exchange from Nasa, after the company gave up its Russian Soyuz rocket seat for American astronaut, Mark Vande Hei, in 2021.
So in a way Axiom are taking Cosmonaut's place on ISS.
Quote from: TrevorMonty on 04/29/2022 08:02 pmSo in a way Axiom are taking Cosmonaut's place on ISS. Actually, it is a US astronaut seat that Axiom is taking. Essentially, NASA traded a US astronaut seat on Crew-6 for a Soyuz seat (Vande Hei's) much earlier. This provided them with extra insurance to have a US astronaut on station at all times if Crew Dragon's first operational mission was delayed past the completion of the last Soyuz seat obtained through the old arrangement (purchased through Boeing as part of the Sea Launch deal). But in exchange, they gave up one crew spot on a future expedition.Basically, you can think of it as Vande Hei having been "assigned" the Crew-6 seat, and having just taken his flight really early. In the end, it looks like NASA got a great deal that was better than the sum of its parts. In exchange for giving up a Crew-6 expedition member for the usual 180-day duration, they got an extra expedition member to get work done earlier, whose mission ended up getting doubled to nearly a year due to the crew logistics surrounding the Russian movie filming (which NASA was happy to take since it meant getting more "mileage" out of their seat swap). And as for Crew-6, even though NASA will be down a US crew member, the UAE astronaut who's flying instead will be serving as a full-time station participant, meaning that a lot of the same work on-station will still get done (just not by NASA) that would've otherwise been done by the US crew member who got "bumped".I wouldn't be surprised if NASA and Axiom knew the whole time that the plan was for the UAE to buy this seat from Axiom, but they held off on announcing it until now to avoid jumping the gun before Axiom had solidified its reputation with a successful first mission.
Quote from: gemmy0I on 04/30/2022 12:41 amQuote from: TrevorMonty on 04/29/2022 08:02 pmSo in a way Axiom are taking Cosmonaut's place on ISS. Actually, it is a US astronaut seat that Axiom is taking. Essentially, NASA traded a US astronaut seat on Crew-6 for a Soyuz seat (Vande Hei's) much earlier. This provided them with extra insurance to have a US astronaut on station at all times if Crew Dragon's first operational mission was delayed past the completion of the last Soyuz seat obtained through the old arrangement (purchased through Boeing as part of the Sea Launch deal). But in exchange, they gave up one crew spot on a future expedition.Basically, you can think of it as Vande Hei having been "assigned" the Crew-6 seat, and having just taken his flight really early. In the end, it looks like NASA got a great deal that was better than the sum of its parts. In exchange for giving up a Crew-6 expedition member for the usual 180-day duration, they got an extra expedition member to get work done earlier, whose mission ended up getting doubled to nearly a year due to the crew logistics surrounding the Russian movie filming (which NASA was happy to take since it meant getting more "mileage" out of their seat swap). And as for Crew-6, even though NASA will be down a US crew member, the UAE astronaut who's flying instead will be serving as a full-time station participant, meaning that a lot of the same work on-station will still get done (just not by NASA) that would've otherwise been done by the US crew member who got "bumped".I wouldn't be surprised if NASA and Axiom knew the whole time that the plan was for the UAE to buy this seat from Axiom, but they held off on announcing it until now to avoid jumping the gun before Axiom had solidified its reputation with a successful first mission.Oh, so right now Stephen Bowen and Warren Hoburg are assigned to Crew-6 but you're saying that one of them (presumably Hoburg) would lose their seat ?
Quote from: jmt27 on 04/30/2022 01:00 amOh, so right now Stephen Bowen and Warren Hoburg are assigned to Crew-6 but you're saying that one of them (presumably Hoburg) would lose their seat ?There is 4 seats. I don't think that anybody is losing a seat.
Oh, so right now Stephen Bowen and Warren Hoburg are assigned to Crew-6 but you're saying that one of them (presumably Hoburg) would lose their seat ?
PAM 3 is for a flight opportunity between mid-2023 and the end of 2023. Two companies submitted proposals: Axiom Space and Shuttle IO Technologies. Proposals from both companies were rejected and both with the comment: "Due to the overwhelming weaknesses in merit and supportability, I agreed with the PEP on the overall rating of “Poor” and find them unselectable."
I found strength in the description of the Axiom team mission and the role of PAMs to stimulate demand through entertainment activities, which demonstrates a thorough understanding of what is required to enable a broad LEO marketplace.
The proposal received three weaknesses related to insufficient data associated with plans for an a [redacted] and details associated with their proposed research and outreach activities.
[...] discussions were required to address a mission activity proposed by Axiom for which NASA policy decisions are currently in work and which could impact that activity. As a result of those discussions, Axiom submitted a proposal revision removing that activity.
I also took into consideration the discussions held between the contracting officer and Axiom (discussed above). I noted the proposal revision submitted by Axiom and agreed with the PEP the proposal no longer contained a provision which is still pending a NASA policy decision. Based on this revision, I found the Axiom proposal could be selected for contract negotiation.
Axiom received a weakness due to the broad range of research, and utilization and outreach objectives which are not achievable in the specified timeframe for their proposed mission and as outlined in their proposed integrated schedule.
In addition, Axiom received a strength based on their proposal containing a letter of commitment with a vehicle provider that has a demonstrated performance of flying astronauts to and from the ISS, and meets ISS interface requirements which increases the likelihood of their executing a safe and successful mission as proposed.
I assessed the Relevance of the Axiom proposal as stated in the NRA focus area 4A. I found strength in the description of the Axiom team mission and the role of PAMs to stimulate demand through entertainment activities, which demonstrates a thorough understanding of what is required to enable a broad LEO marketplace. This is consistent with NASA's commercialization strategy, as well as findings from internal studies outlining potential commercial markets for the ISS. This provides confidence that the proposal will contribute to NASA's mission to broaden and expand the low Earth orbit commercial market. However, the Strength was somewhat offset by the lack of information or description which did not allow for an assessment of the potential contribution to NASA's mission and the objective of successfully executing a private astronaut mission. Additionally, without any detail, I could not assess whether the proposed movie mission would reflect poorly on NASA, ISS partners, or related entities. Overall, I agreed with the PEP and found the Axiom proposal had “good” relevance.
[H]owever, I did not evaluate that alternative mission proposal due to the requirements laid out in Focus Area 4A.1 of the NRA stating "Proposers will be allowed to submit up to two (2) proposals for this solicitation, one (1) per flight opportunity." (e.g. one for PAM 2 and one for PAM 3). Given this limitation in the NRA, neither I nor the PEP were able to evaluate what would essentially be a second alternative Axiom proposal for PAM 3. Any implied information associated with the administration’s position or other data not received as part of this proposal could not be used in any assessment by the PEP or myself.
Follow on solicitations for the PAM 3 opportunity will be announced in the future.
Sep 14, 2022NASA Wants to Open Space to More People, Supports Private MissionsNASA is seeking proposals for two new private astronaut missions to the International Space Station as part of the agency’s efforts to open space to more people than ever before. With these opportunities, U.S. commercial companies will continue to play an essential role in establishing a sustained presence in low-Earth orbit (LEO) through the agency’s Commercial LEO Development Program.The targeted flight opportunities will occur between late 2023 and 2024. A private astronaut mission involves U.S. commercial spacecraft transporting private astronauts to the space station, where they conduct activities aboard the orbiting laboratory or a commercial structure attached to it. NASA is enabling up to two short-duration private astronaut missions per year.“We are truly in an exciting era, witnessing a significant increase in access to space and expansion of the commercial marketplace in low-Earth orbit,” said Angela Hart, manager of the Commercial Low-Earth Orbit Program at NASA’s Johnson Space Center. “We recognize the importance of NASA’s continued support, and are dedicated to working with industry to identify areas where our expertise and unique capabilities support expansion, as with private astronaut missions. These provide a unique opportunity for industry to gain critical experience needed to select, train, and manage crews on future commercial low-Earth orbit destinations, as well as work with new science partners, future commercial partners and grow this non-traditional market.”The new targeted flight opportunities will be the third and fourth private astronaut missions to the International Space Station coordinated by NASA. The first mission was accomplished by Axiom Space in April 2022. Axiom Space was also selected by NASA for the second private astronaut mission, scheduled for the second quarter of 2023.Each of the new missions may be up to 14 days while docked to the space station. Specific dates are dependent on spacecraft traffic to the space station and in-orbit activity planning and constraints. Private astronaut missions must be brokered by a U.S. entity and use U.S. transportation spacecraft that meet NASA’s International Space Station visiting vehicle requirements, policies, and procedures. Refer to Focus Area 4A of NASA Research Announcement (NRA) NNJ13ZBG001N for additional details.Enabling private astronaut missions to the International Space Station is part of the agency's goal to develop a robust low-Earth orbit economy where NASA is one of many customers, and the private sector leads the way. This strategy will provide services the government needs at a lower cost, enabling the agency to focus on its Artemis missions to the Moon ahead of human missions to Mars, while continuing to use low-Earth orbit as a training and proving ground for deep space exploration.Proposals are due at 5 p.m. EDT on Oct. 27, 2022. NASA will host a pre-proposal conference to address questions related to the solicitation at 11 a.m. on Friday, Sept. 16, 2022. To confirm attendance, please email Kelly Rubio at [email protected] no later than 4 p.m. Sept. 15, 2022.
NASA is now saying that private astronaut EVAs at the ISS will not be permitted. Hurray for ISS commercialization! I guess Axiom will have to find retired NASA astronauts to test their Artemis spacesuits. Or maybe conduct the spacesuit tests from a free-flying Dragon. Or just wing it and have the Artemis 3 crew try them out in space for the first time on the Moon. It's not like we've heard anything substantial from NASA about spacesuit testing. Seems like a bunch of sour grapes Polaris envy.
I found a brief mention here: https://spacenews.com/nasa-requests-proposals-for-two-iss-private-astronaut-missions/"NASA also noted in the procurement that proposed missions seeking to conduct a spacewalk by private astronauts “will not be considered allowable.” It’s unclear if any companies were actively considering spacewalks on private missions."This is specifically about the PAM 3 and 4 solicitation for 2023 and 2024. It is not a general prohibition on spacewalk proposals for all future private astronaut missions.
Quote from: butters on 09/15/2022 06:48 pmNASA is now saying that private astronaut EVAs at the ISS will not be permitted. Hurray for ISS commercialization! I guess Axiom will have to find retired NASA astronauts to test their Artemis spacesuits. Or maybe conduct the spacesuit tests from a free-flying Dragon. Or just wing it and have the Artemis 3 crew try them out in space for the first time on the Moon. It's not like we've heard anything substantial from NASA about spacesuit testing. Seems like a bunch of sour grapes Polaris envy.Citation needed for NASA not allowing private astronaut EVAs. A quick google search doesn't provide any corroboration. [...]
As I indicated in the post linked below, it's possible that Axiom's proposal for PAM-2 proposed an EVA and that NASA refused that part of their proposal (i.e., Axiom had to withdraw it):https://forum.nasaspaceflight.com/index.php?topic=48301.msg2398318#msg2398318NASA said in the Ax-1 Prelaunch Press Conference below that they weren't ready to allow EVAs on ISS private astronaut missions for now and they explained why. It's at 57 minutes of this video (the best questions are often last):
Is there any place I can watch or listen to the pre-solicitation conference that happened on the 16th of September?
Emirati astronaut set for six-month mission to International Space Station:https://www.thenationalnews.com/uae/science/2022/04/29/emirati-astronaut-set-for-six-month-mission-to-international-space-station/
I understand selling access to the #ISS is anathema to many, it is an imperative step toward building the demand that commercial platform providers need to close their business case. (1/2)
Otherwise the enterprise will fail and our access to low Earth orbit, and all the opportunities to be found there, will end with it. (2/2)
Tom Cruise plans to film a movie in space — and could be the first civilian to do a spacewalk:https://www.cbsnews.com/news/tom-cruise-film-movie-in-space/
NASA confirms that the two people yet to be named on the upcoming Ax-2 private astronaut mission will be from Saudi Arabia. Names not released, but it appears they have already been selected and have started training.
The tweet from VAST itselfhttps://twitter.com/vast/status/1760409420557680955?s=20