Sec Challenger V3: Space Shuttle Crew Capsule for NASA's Artemis II Mission

Overview

Sec Challenger V3 is a next-generation crew capsule being developed by space exploration company, Sierra Space, as part of NASA's Artemis program. Intended for the Artemis II mission, the capsule will be the first crewed spacecraft to fly beyond low Earth orbit since the Apollo era.

The Challenger V3 is designed to carry up to four astronauts on missions up to a month in duration. The capsule is equipped with a variety of advanced features, including a docking port for connecting to the Artemis Gateway, a lunar-orbiting space station. The capsule is also equipped with a variety of life support systems, including an environmental control system, a water recycling system, and a waste management system.

Artemis II Mission

The Artemis II mission is scheduled to launch in 2024 and will be the first crewed flight of the Space Launch System (SLS) rocket. The mission will also be the first crewed flight of the Orion spacecraft since the Artemis I mission in 2022.

During the Artemis II mission, the Challenger V3 capsule will carry four astronauts on a 10-day mission to the lunar orbit. The astronauts will conduct a variety of experiments and tests, including testing the capsule's systems and docking with the Artemis Gateway.

Specifications

• Crew capacity: 4 astronauts
• Mission duration: Up to one month
• Length: 16.5 feet (5 meters)
• Diameter: 13 feet (4 meters)
• Mass: 22,000 pounds (10,000 kilograms)
• Propulsion: Draco thrusters
• Docking port: Compatible with Artemis Gateway
• Life support systems: Environmental control system, water recycling system, waste management system

Conclusion

The Sec Challenger V3 is a state-of-the-art crew capsule that will play a vital role in NASA's Artemis program. The capsule will provide astronauts with a safe and reliable way to travel to and from the lunar orbit, and will help to pave the way for future crewed missions to the Moon and Mars.