Space Operations has said it will test launch its first orbital manned commercial spacecraft by 20 February 2012.

The company plans to begin regular flights of the two-seat spacecraft by the end of 2012 or early 2013.

Space Operations will use Gemini technology developed by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration to develop the Eclipse spacecraft in a very short timeframe.

The Eclipse will carry crew as well as nearly 10,000lbs of cargo into orbit.

The spacecraft will be used to service different sectors in the orbital space market including satellite servicing and repair, satellite deployment, space tourism, new space station construction and space debris de-orbit.