ELS-RS
Planned uncrewed return service that would bring payloads back from crewed space stations often and on short notice.
Why it matters
Space stations produce samples that need to come home quickly, but return seats on cargo vehicles are scarce. A dedicated small return vehicle could make station research faster.
How the technology works
ElevationSpace plans small recovery spacecraft that pick up payloads from a crewed station and reenter on their own. Payload reports the company targets a demonstration at the ISS in 2029.
Sources
Updated Oct 22, 2026 · How we source facts · Suggest a correction