Sierra Space’s new spacecraft, the Dream Chaser, has arrived at the Kennedy Space Center, promising a new era of space exploration reminiscent of the space shuttle era.

Designed to transport cargo to and from the International Space Station, the Dream Chaser is set to debut its first launch in September with its initial model, named Tenacity.

Former NASA astronaut Dr. Tom Marshburn, now part of Sierra Space, envisions broader applications for the spacecraft, including human travel to low Earth orbit.

Marshburn’s work focuses on designing living quarters for space travelers and developing an inflatable space station module capable of fostering breakthroughs in zero gravity, NBC News 6 Miami has reported.

Reflecting on his experiences in space, Marshburn emphasizes the fragility of both humanity and the planet, underscoring the importance of caring for Earth while paving the way for future interplanetary exploration.

Written by B.C. Begley