New Shepard Capsule
Discover New Shepard, Blue Origin’s suborbital launch vehicle, offering passengers a glimpse of space and weightlessness.
The complete database of
Commercial Spacecraft
Delve into the burgeoning industry of communication satellites, Earth observation satellites, and space tourism spacecraft, driving innovation and accessibility to space for private enterprises.
Tourism Spacecraft
Tourism spacecraft are exactly what they sound like—spacecraft designed to take everyday people (not just astronauts) on trips into space. These spacecraft are built for commercial purposes, meaning their main goal is to give civilians the experience of being in space. You might float in microgravity, see Earth from orbit, or even (someday) land on another celestial body.
Embark on the ultimate adventure with spacecraft offering civilian space travel experiences, allowing private citizens to venture into the cosmos for leisure and exploration.
SpaceShipTwo
Explore SpaceShipTwo, Virgin Galactic’s innovative spacecraft offering suborbital space tourism experiences and its role in commercial flight.
VSS Unity
Explore VSS Unity, Virgin Galactic’s revolutionary spacecraft offering suborbital spaceflight experiences and experience weightlessness.
Axiom Space Station
Axiom Space is developing the world’s first commercial space station, known as Axiom Station. Learn more about this private enterprise.
Other Commercial Spacecraft
There are commercial spacecraft that are not focused on tourism. These spacecraft serve a variety of purposes in sectors like science, industry, communications, and national security.
1. Satellite Operations
This includes spacecraft designed for launching, deploying, servicing, or repairing satellites. These satellites support telecommunications, GPS, Earth observation, weather monitoring, and internet services, with companies like SpaceX, Rocket Lab, and Northrop Grumman leading the way.
2. Cargo and Space Station Support
Spacecraft such as SpaceX’s Dragon and Northrop Grumman’s Cygnus handle resupply missions, deliver equipment, and support research on platforms like the ISS. Additionally, companies like Axiom Space and Sierra Space are constructing commercial space stations for research, manufacturing, and business operations.
3. Research, Development, and Manufacturing
This group focuses on spacecraft used for scientific experiments in microgravity, such as pharmaceutical testing and materials development. Companies like Made In Space specialize in in-orbit manufacturing, producing advanced materials and products like fiber optics and biological tissues.
4. Exploration and Defense
Spacecraft in this category are designed for planetary exploration, lunar landings, asteroid mining, and defense purposes. Examples include lunar landers by Astrobotic Technology and Intuitive Machines, as well as surveillance and communication systems developed for national security.