A futuristic spacecraft straight out of a ‘Star Wars’ movie is gearing up for its debut mission, set to launch in September. Sierra Space’s Dream Chaser space plane, with its retractable wings and Space Shuttle-like design, has captured the imagination of space enthusiasts.

After completing rigorous testing at the Neil Armstrong Test Facility in Ohio, the spacecraft has now arrived at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center for final preparations. The first mission aims to test its cargo capabilities, with plans to eventually carry human astronauts on board.

Measuring 30 feet long by 15 feet wide, the Dream Chaser Tenacity features a unique lifting body design that enables it to transport cargo to and from low Earth orbit. Unlike traditional spacecraft, it can land on a runway similar to NASA’s space shuttle, offering a reusable and controlled descent.

Sierra Space’s ambitious project, announced nearly two decades ago, is now nearing realization. The spacecraft will undergo a series of tests at the Kennedy Space Center before being attached to the United Launch Alliance’s Vulcan rocket for its journey into space.

Under contract with NASA for seven cargo missions to the International Space Station, Dream Chaser presents a sustainable alternative to existing cargo shuttles. Equipped with heat tiles for reentry protection and a modular cargo module named ‘Shooting Star,’ the spacecraft represents a significant advancement in private spaceflight.

While the timeline for completion remains uncertain, the anticipation for Dream Chaser’s inaugural mission is palpable. As the first private spaceplane of its kind, it symbolizes a new era in space exploration, bridging the legacy of past spaceplanes with cutting-edge technology.

As the spacecraft continues its preparations for the upcoming launch, space enthusiasts eagerly await the moment when the Dream Chaser will soar into the skies, marking a significant milestone in human spaceflight.