Sundancer

Sundancer is the third prototype of a space station module, which by the private company Bigelow Aerospace ( BA) is to be transported and tested into space. As for the Genesis series, the technology is based on the TransHab study. The start of the module was scheduled for 2014 and will probably take place before 2015.

Background

Sundancer was originally scheduled as the fourth prototype. However, led by testimony of Robert Bigelow rising transportation costs and the success with Genesis 1 and 2 to cancel the Galaxy mission. The Galaxy module should ( usable volume of 11.5 m³ ) and less than the Sundancer module be ( total volume 180 m³) of the dimensions forth twice as large as the Genesis modules. After the launch of Sundancer has been postponed several times, should this be done currently in 2015 with the Falcon 9 SpaceX.

In the first six to nine months after the start of system tests are performed at Sundancer. Then this is accessible to astronauts if a suitably economical transport system should be available. Are manned missions to Sundancer is successful, this will serve as a starting point for the construction of the complex to a node, a drive bus system and the BA -330 modules. The node is designed for docking the BA -330 modules.

Systems and configuration

The Sundancer module will be equipped with a fully functioning life support system, an orbit and attitude control system and drive system. For this reason, the module could also be referred to as a space station, as this provides the primary functions of a space station and is intended to provide. After entering into the orbit, which begins the inflation of the module to a diameter of 6.3 m and a length of 8.7 m. The module with its 180 m³ offers short term and long term seating for six for three people. It has, on the authority of BA, an equivalent or better radiation protection than the ISS and a better ballistic protection against space debris and micrometeorites than a conventional " aluminum cylinder space station module". Sundancer also has two drive systems, on the bow and stern side. The rear-wheel drive should be refillable and reusable again. The energy is supplied by solar panels and batteries. For future visitors Sundancer offers first module of BA four windows for the natural and supernatural views. The basic concept of the station building is the autonomy of the individual modules, ie each module has the same main systems ( life support, attitude control, power supply, ...) as the other modules.