The article discusses the development of a unique space simulator by the New York Consortium for Space and Technology intended to facilitate the testing of spacecraft technologies. Sponsored by the U.S. Department of Defense with a $5 million investment, it aims to address challenges like spacecraft interaction in orbit. However, a stop-work order has delayed renovations and construction, raising concerns about lost economic opportunities and the impact on future space missions, as highlighted by NASA studies that link investment to significant economic returns.
The spacecraft might need to communicate, refuel, repair themselves - all of these things need to happen in orbit that don't currently happen in orbit.
We're building a unique facility where we'll be able to test and verify and understand better all the technologies involved - where we're forming the basis for how the future of space will look.
But on Apr. 10, Peck received a stop-work order that halted progress on renovations of the high bay and on construction of the spacecraft.
Peck cited studies from NASA finding that taxpayer investment in the agency generates three times as much in economic activity.
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