The lifting body spacecraft, designed for runway landings and reusable orbital operations, recently underwent extensive electromagnetic interference and electromagnetic compatibility (EMI/EMC) testing at NASA’s Space Systems Processing Facility. The trials confirmed that Dream Chaser can operate safely within the electromagnetic conditions it is expected to encounter during future missions.
Dream Chaser also completed high-speed tow tests at the Kennedy Space Center and Space Florida’s Launch and Landing Facility. A Freightliner Cascadia truck supplied by Daimler Truck North America pulled the vehicle down the runway to simulate landing dynamics and validate the spaceplane’s autonomous navigation systems.
In another milestone, Sierra Space confirmed the spacecraft successfully demonstrated its ability to receive telemetry and relay commands between mission control in Louisville, Colorado, and NASA’s Tracking and Data Relay Satellite System. This test was crucial for proving Dream Chaser’s readiness for real-time command and control during flight.
The latest test campaign wrapped up with a post-landing recovery rehearsal, giving teams practice in securing the vehicle and gaining rapid access to sensitive on-board payloads.
With these elements ticked off, Dream Chaser is expected to move into its final phase of acoustic testing in December 2025. Sierra Space said the company will then begin exploring and integrating modifications for national security applications at its Colorado facilities work intended to broaden the spaceplane’s mission set and demonstrate its value across defence and security operations.
Dream Chaser remains on schedule for its first mission to low-Earth orbit in the fourth quarter of 2026 under NASA’s CRS-2 cargo resupply contract. The demonstration flight is planned to conclude with a runway landing at Vandenberg Space Force Base in California.
“Each milestone we reach reflects the resilience, innovation and dedication of the Sierra Space team,” executive chair Fatih Ozmen said. “Dream Chaser is progressing steadily towards its inaugural flight and will play a vital role in supporting the nation’s key space priorities.”
Sierra Space said it is committed to advancing space transportation, exploration and defence with technologies designed to protect national security interests and ensure assured access to space.