Ares Orion

NASA is developing a next-generation space shuttle named Ares-Orion. The shuttle project, named Constellation, is scheduled to take flight in 2015. The Ares-Orion will replace the current space shuttle, which is set to retire in 2010. Shuttle developer Lockheed Martin states that the shuttle will travel to the International Space Station, the Moon and Mars.¹

Fast Facts

1. Ares is the rocket portion²
2. Orion is the capsule, similar to the Apollo design²
3. Project name: Constellation²
4. Set to launch in 2015³
5. Will replace the current space shuttle, which will retire in 2010
6. In development by NASA and Lockheed Martin¹
7. To be used for flights to the International Space Station, the Moon and Mars¹

Delayed Launch?

In August of 2008, news sources reported that NASA was investigating the possibility of the current space shuttle operating past its scheduled retirement date of 2010. Michael Griffin, a NASA director, requested the study as an attempt to prepare for questions from the incoming U.S. President. Griffin has been critical of extending the shuttle's operation, stating that the money required to do so would take away from production of Ares-Orion.³

Related Pages on Mahalo

NASA | Space Shuttle | Lockheed Martin | International Space Station | The Moon | Mars

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