Recently, Sierra Space, a Broomfield-based space-tech and defense-tech firm, has initiated beta testing its Sierra Space Ghost–a logistics craft capable to retrieving and returning payloads from outer space.
Successfully tested, the Sierra Space Ghost signifies a leap forward in national security and space logistics. Possessing a unique thermal protection system, the Sierra Space Ghost Beta decelerator ensures the safe re-entry of small payloads from space. The completion of the first drop test of the Sierra Space Ghost in Florida has provided Sierra Space test engineers with a comprehensive understanding of the system’s flight characteristics, and options for quick recovery operations on the ground.
“As we continue to innovate at speed, this test enables us to build, test, learn and accelerate the development of a revolutionary new operational asset for national security,” said Tom Vice, CEO of Sierra Space. “We envision having an inventory of Sierra Space Ghost vehicles strategically positioned and readily accessible and deployable within 90 minutes to critical locations anywhere on Earth. Sierra Space Ghost enables our customers to deliver vital resources to frontline personnel with unparalleled precision and speed.”
The capacity to deliver critical supplies anywhere on Earth within a span of 90 minutes has the potential to change the course of a conflict. This game-changing tech enables ground forces to request pre-staged supplies waiting in an on-orbit inventory or primed for rapid launch, and have them deployed within 100 yards of the location where they are most needed.
In association with Florida-based company Operator Solutions, Sierra Space performed a series of three drop tests earlier in February at Space Florida’s storied Launch and Landing Facility (LLF). These tests have ensured stable subsonic flight for the hardware and paved the way for scaling up to hypersonic in upcoming trials.
The entire testing operation was assembled in 90 days under Sierra Space’s Axelerator incubator scheme, designed to expedite the development of state-of-the-art defense tech and mission solutions. The Axelerator incubator forms part of Sierra Space’s Orbital Missions and Services organization, established in 2023 to concentrate on cutting-edge national security solutions. Since its inception, Sierra Space has been granted $1.3 billion in contracts for prime satellite constellations.
The Sierra Space Ghost will now carry on with a comprehensive beta testing program, developing operations in real time. This allows the test team to review the necessary infrastructure and architectural layout to operate the spacecraft, along with the communications and data systems, as well as recording every detail of operations.
About Sierra Space: With more than 30 years and 500 missions of space flight experience, Sierra Space is a leading commercial space company spearheading the innovation and commercialization of space in the Orbital Age®. The company is carving out an end-to-end business and technological platform in space to benefit life on Earth.
For more details on Sierra Space and the Sierra Space Ghost, visit Sierra Space Ghost.