NASA and Sierra Space Reshape Dream Chaser Path with Contract Modification

Dream Chaser "Tenacity" Spaceplane // Photo: Sierra Space

NASA and Sierra Space have agreed to modify the agency’s Commercial Resupply Services-2 (CRS-2) contract, pivoting Dream Chaser’s debut to an uncrewed free-flight demonstration targeted for late 2026 rather than an immediate space station resupply mission. Under the change, NASA is no longer obligated to order a set number of Dream Chaser ISS flights, but may place orders after a successful demo.

The agency said Sierra Space will continue providing development insight to NASA through the demo, while NASA’s role shifts to “minimal support” during the remaining development and the flight itself. “Development of new space transportation systems is difficult and can take longer than originally planned,” said Dana Weigel, manager of NASA’s ISS Program.

NASA’s update also notes that as the ISS heads toward deorbit in 2030, the decision enables Dream Chaser testing and verification now, keeping the spaceplane in play for potential future resupply roles in low Earth orbit if the demonstration proves out. In the meantime, NASA and its partners will continue supplying the orbital complex while the agency advances a transition to commercial stations, where NASA aims to be one of many customers.

How We Got Here

NASA selected Sierra Space (then Sierra Nevada Corporation) in 2016 as one of the CRS-2 cargo providers. As the program evolved, Sierra Space was awarded a minimum seven flights, and NASA previously issued firm-fixed-price task orders for four Dream Chaser resupply missions—commitments that are now no longer guaranteed and will instead depend on the outcome of the free-flight.

What Changes Now

• Demo First: Dream Chaser’s first mission will be a free-flying orbital demonstration (no ISS docking) no earlier than late 2026.

• Orders After Success: NASA may order ISS resupply flights following a successful free flight under the existing CRS-2 contract.

• Scaled NASA Role: NASA will provide minimal support through the remainder of development and the demo flight

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Why It Matters

The modification reduces near-term operational risk around ISS proximity operations while preserving a path for Dream Chaser to become a cargo option later in the decade. It also aligns with NASA’s broader shift toward a commercial LEO economy as ISS operations wind down.