As part of the testing sequence, Dream Chaser underwent Electromagnetic Interference and Electromagnetic Compatibility testing at NASA’s Space Systems Processing Facility. These assessments verified the spacecraft’s ability to operate safely within expected electromagnetic environments across its planned missions.
The spaceplane also completed high speed tow tests at Kennedy Space Center and Space Florida’s Launch and Landing Facility. A Freightliner Cascadia truck provided by Daimler Truck North America towed the vehicle to simulate landing dynamics and validate autonomous navigational parameters during runway operations.
Sierra Space further confirmed that Dream Chaser successfully demonstrated its ability to receive telemetry and distribute commands between the spacecraft and Mission Control in Louisville, Colorado through NASA’s Tracking and Data Relay Satellite System. This milestone tested real time command and control capability ahead of future flight operations.
The company concluded the campaign with a post landing recovery rehearsal designed to verify the safing of vehicle systems and ensure rapid access to sensitive payloads. With these steps completed, Dream Chaser will move to its final round of acoustic testing in December 2025.
Sierra Space plans to explore and perform modifications for national security applications in Colorado after acoustic testing. The company said these upgrades aim to broaden Dream Chaser’s versatility and support a wide range of mission requirements linked to national defence.
The spaceplane remains on track for its first launch to Low Earth Orbit in the fourth quarter of 2026 under a demonstration mission for the CRS-2 contract, with a runway landing planned at Vandenberg Space Force Base. Fatih Ozmen, Executive Chair at Sierra Space, said, “Each milestone we achieve is a testament to the resilience, innovation and dedication of the Sierra Space team, and represents another significant step forward in ensuring Dream Chaser’s success as a versatile, reusable spacecraft,” adding, “We are excited to see Dream Chaser progressing steadily toward its inaugural flight to support the nation’s most pressing space priorities.”
Sierra Space said it remains committed to advancing space transportation, exploration and defence through solutions designed to safeguard national security and ensure freedom of operations beyond Earth.
