Roscosmos Drops 'Eagle' Name for New Crewed Spacecraft
The Russian space agency's next-generation crewed spacecraft is now referred to as PTK NP, dropping the 'Eagle' name adopted in 2019.
Roscosmos chief executive Dmitry Bakanov appears to have dropped the "Eagle" name for Russia's next-generation crewed spacecraft. In a recent Interfax story, the vehicle is referred to as PTK NP, according to arstechnica.com.
The name "Eagle" (Orel) was adopted in September 2019 under then-Roscosmos head Dmitry Rogozin. Before that, the spacecraft was known as Federatsiya, a name announced in January 2016 following a public contest.
The program's naming history stretches back further. In 2009, the initial conceptual project was called PPTS (Prospective Piloted Transport System), and until 2016 the official technical designation was PTK NP (New Generation Piloted Transport Ship).
Two decades ago, Russia and the European Space Agency discussed collaboration on a next-generation crewed spacecraft, with Europe to provide a service module for a capsule carrying up to six passengers. Europe ultimately decided not to pursue a crewed spacecraft project at the time, and Roscosmos chose to proceed on its own.
Quick answers
What is the new name for Russia's crewed spacecraft?
Roscosmos chief Dmitry Bakanov appears to have dropped the 'Eagle' name, and the spacecraft is now referred to as PTK NP.
When was the 'Eagle' name adopted?
The name Orel (Eagle) was adopted in September 2019 under then-Roscosmos head Dmitry Rogozin.
What was the spacecraft called before 'Eagle'?
It was known as Federatsiya, a name announced in January 2016 after a public contest. Earlier designations included PPTS and PTK NP.