NASA to get SpaceX, Rocketplane Kistler to build a spacecraft

NASA to get SpaceX, Rocketplane Kistler to build a spacecraft

US based space agency NASA has awarded contracts valued at $485 million to SpaceX, Rocketplane Kistler.

This contract is to build a cargo ship to serve the International Space Station as they prepare to establish a potential commercial space industry.

This is interestingly the first time NASA is relying on contractors to build a spaceship that private companies, not the government, will own.

Scott Horowitz, a former astronaut and NASA’s associate chief for exploration systems spoke on this new development: “If the commercial sector can do it safely and more cost effectively, it makes sense to buy that service.”

Beth Dickey, a spokeswoman for the agency added: “This is like venture capital. We’re making an investment that’s high risk, high reward.”