NASA is set to retired the Space Shuttle fleet in 2010 after the Internatioanl Space Station is completed.

 The Orion Crew Exploration Vehicle (CEV), is  NASA’s new manned space vehicle. Scheduled to begin operating around 2014. The Orion crew exploration vehicle's, will carry up to six crew members to the International Space Station, and four crew members to lunar orbit.

 Orion as been referred to as Apollo on steroids as it has a similar shape to the Apollo capsule used in the 60’s and 70’s, although it bigger. The conical shape is the safest and most reliable for re-entering the atmosphere, especially at the velocities required for a direct return from the moon.

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By Ton Noteboom.

Artist’s concept of  Orion crew exploration vehicle in lunar orbit. Image Credit: Lockheed Martin

Engineers inspect the Orion module.