CST-100

Boeing has completed key reviews of its Crew Space Transportation (CST)-100 spacecraft.

The critical design review (CDR) of the spacecraft was undertaken in July alongside the Phase II spacecraft safety review.

The company has said that the move marks the completion of all the milestones in the commercial crew integrated capability (CCiCap) programme.

Completion of the CDR paves way for the design of the spacecraft, launch vehicle and related systems.

As part of the review, 44 individual CDRs were conducted on various systems, including propulsion, software, avionics, landing, power and docking systems.

"We look forward to bringing the CST-100 to life."

Boeing Commercial Crew programme manager John Mulholland said: "The challenge of a CDR is to ensure all the pieces and sub-systems are working together.

"Integration of these systems is key. Now, we look forward to bringing the CST-100 to life."

During the Phase II spacecraft safety review, hazard analysis of the spacecraft was carried out, in addition to identifying life-threatening situations and ensuring that the design mitigated any safety risks.

Being developed as part of Nasa’s Commercial Crew Program (CCP), the CST-100 features a weldless structure, wireless internet and Boeing LED Sky Lighting technology, and can accommodate seven crew members or a mix of crew and cargo.

Image: An artist’s rendering of CST-100 spacecraft. Photo: courtesy of Boeing.

Defence Technology