// ORBITAL LOGISTICS AND PROPULSION TERM

Main Sequence

The main sequence is the stage in a star's life where it fuses hydrogen into helium in its core, like our Sun, and is in a stable phase.

TECHNICAL DEFINITION

The main sequence is the continuous and distinctive band of stars appearing on plots of stellar luminosity versus surface temperature (Hertzsprung-Russell diagram), representing the stable phase where stars primarily fuse hydrogen into helium in their cores.

BACKGROUND

While commercial space flights have been flown to the International Space Station (ISS), there are currently no commercial space stations in operation. This is a list of planned and cancelled commercial space stations.

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SYNONYMS & ALIASES

  • Stellar main sequence
  • Hydrogen-burning phase
  • HR diagram
  • Stable star phase

USAGE NOTE

Our Sun is currently a main sequence star.

DEVELOPERS

Organizations developing technology related to Main Sequence.

  • SpaceX

    Develops and operates advanced reusable rockets and spacecraft, providing foundational access to space and critical satellite communication infrastructure for the global space economy.

  • Blue Origin

    Developing a range of reusable launch vehicles, rocket engines, and lunar landers, establishing core capabilities for human spaceflight and future space infrastructure.

  • United Launch Alliance (ULA)

    Provides reliable and cost-efficient space launch services for critical national security, civil, and commercial payloads, forming a fundamental pillar of access to space.

  • Maxar Technologies

    A leading provider of Earth observation satellites, robotic space systems, and geospatial intelligence, offering foundational data and infrastructure for a wide array of space economy applications.

  • Airbus Defence and Space

    A major European player in spacecraft manufacturing, launch vehicle development, and space services, providing essential building blocks and systems for global space missions.

  • Northrop Grumman Space Systems

    Develops and manufactures satellites, launch vehicles, and advanced space systems for national security and civil customers, contributing fundamental components to space exploration and defense.

  • Rocket Lab

    Specializes in small satellite launch services (Electron) and satellite manufacturing (Photon), enabling accessible and routine space deployment for a rapidly growing segment of the space economy.

  • Planet Labs PBC

    Operates the largest constellation of Earth observation satellites, providing daily imagery and insights that form a foundational data layer for numerous industries and government applications.

  • Relativity Space

    Pioneering the use of 3D printing for rocket manufacturing, aiming to industrialize and scale space launch capabilities through innovative production techniques, a core manufacturing innovation for the future space economy.

  • Axiom Space

    Developing commercial modules for the International Space Station and planning the first commercial space station, establishing foundational in-orbit infrastructure for a permanent human presence in space.

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