Quick wins for a faster PC:
Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →NASA does not select one spacecraft in a single contest and immediately approve it for astronaut flights. It sets mission and safety requirements, awards development-and-certification contracts to providers, oversees their work, and reviews evidence before authorizing routine crewed service. In the 2014 Commercial Crew Transportation Capability competition, NASA chose both Boeing and SpaceX to help provide U.S. transportation to the International Space Station (ISS).
1. NASA defines what the transportation system must do
NASA identified a need for safe, reliable, cost-effective transport to low Earth orbit and the ISS, including the return trip to Earth. It established broad crew-safety and mission requirements, while leaving companies room to propose their own designs and operating approaches. The proposal had to meet NASA’s requirements; NASA did not prescribe a single spacecraft design.
The system under consideration is larger than the capsule. NASA evaluates the spacecraft together with its launch vehicle, ground systems, and mission operations. For example, NASA describes Crew Dragon as launching on SpaceX’s Falcon 9 and Starliner as launching on United Launch Alliance’s Atlas V for the 2024 crew flight test. Those are architectural differences, not a ranking of the vehicles. NASA’s Commercial Crew Program overview explains the commercial model and system context.
2. NASA competed the work and selected two providers
NASA used an open competition and, in September 2014, awarded fixed-price Commercial Crew Transportation Capability (CCtCap) contracts to Boeing and SpaceX. NASA’s program summary lists the initial awards as $4.2 billion for Boeing and $2.6 billion for SpaceX. These were historical contract award figures, not current spacecraft prices. The contracts funded development and certification of integrated crew transportation systems against NASA requirements. NASA’s Commercial Crew Program Essentials describes the phases and awards.
#1 Best Overall
- ICONIC NASA ARTEMIS I ROCKET MODEL KIT - Recreate the historic Artemis I mission with this highly detailed 1:144 scale Space Launch System (SLS)—a must-have for space enthusiasts, collectors, and model builders.
- AUTHENTIC MULTI-STAGE DETAILING - Features twin solid rocket boosters, detailed core stage with external hydrogen lines, separate stage assembly, and four RS‑25 engines for a realistic, true-to-life build.
- IMPRESSIVE 28" DISPLAY CENTERPIECE - Standing nearly 28 inches tall, this model delivers a striking vertical display that commands attention in any room, office, or collection.
- SKILL LEVEL 4 – ADVANCED BUILD EXPERIENCE - Designed for experienced hobbyists ages 12+ seeking a challenging, rewarding project with intricate parts and detailed assembly.
- READY FOR CUSTOM PAINT FINISH - Molded in light gray plastic so you can paint and detail to your exact preferences for a museum-quality appearance. (Paint & glue required, not included.)
NASA selected both companies rather than treating the competition as a winner-takes-all choice because the program aimed to establish U.S. crew transportation capability and redundancy. Awarding a contract meant that a provider would develop and demonstrate its system; it did not mean NASA had certified the spacecraft or authorized regular astronaut flights.
3. NASA oversees development and tracks risk
The providers own and operate their hardware and infrastructure. NASA engineers work with them during development, review hazards and risks, and take part in technical reviews, demonstrations, and tests. Providers are required to identify and track risks, share risk-system data, notify NASA of reviews and tests, and submit hazard reports. NASA’s Office of Inspector General describes these responsibilities and the government’s access to information in its Commercial Crew risk-management report.
Rank #2
- Replica of the tile structure
- Detailed cockpit
- Cockpit canopy optionally removable
- 2 crew figures
- Opening cargo bay doors
This oversight is continuing, not a single final inspection. NASA considers how a system is designed and built, the engineering and management processes used to develop it, and what tests show about its performance. Oversight findings can also reveal gaps in how schedules, safety issues, and program information are managed; they do not reduce NASA’s decision to a simple numerical score.
4. Certification depends on evidence from the integrated system
Before routine crewed service, NASA reviews whether the provider has demonstrated compliance with requirements across the spacecraft, launch vehicle, ground systems, mission operations, and flight environment. A crewed flight test is one part of that evidence. The contracted test was intended to verify that the combined rocket and spacecraft could launch, maneuver in orbit, dock, and perform as expected with an astronaut aboard. NASA’s Commercial Crew press kit outlines certification scope and system-level requirements.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems2Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches3Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsRank #3
- Celebrate Wonders of Space with NASA Space Shuttle Discovery Set: Relive the historic missions of the Space Shuttle Discovery, including the deployment of the Hubble Space Telescope during STS-31. This model kit invites you on a journey of exploration, capturing the spirit of space discovery that reshaped our understanding of the universe
- Realistic Detailed Design: Experience authentic details with this model, from opening the payload bay to deploying the Hubble Telescope. With adjustable elevons, landing gear, and a deployable robotic arm, this model faithfully replicates the real-life Space Shuttle, making it a perfect centerpiece for any space enthusiast's collection
- Designed for Space Enthusiasts: This meticulously detailed space shuttle model, complete with a display stand, is an ideal gift for adults and older kids who are passionate about space exploration. It offers an immersive building experience, suitable for both experienced and beginner model builders
- Safe Material and Easy-to-Follow 3D Instructions: Made from green paper foam board, this model is safer and lighter than traditional materials, yet highly realistic. The clear, detailed instructions make assembly straightforward, even for beginners. Build-up size: 19.3" L x 12.2" W x 13.2" H.
- A Tribute to NASA’s Legacy: Celebrate NASA's legacy with this Space Shuttle Discovery model, perfect for those who dream of the stars. Whether for yourself or as a gift for a fellow space enthusiast, this model captures the excitement and innovation of space exploration, making it a meaningful addition to any collection
Passing a program milestone is not the same as completing certification. When SpaceX completed its Certification Baseline Review, then-Commercial Crew Program manager Kathy Lueders said, “This milestone sets the pace for the rigorous work ahead as SpaceX meets the certification requirements outlined in our contract.” NASA’s 2014 release on the milestone makes clear that further verification remained.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Where Crew Dragon and Starliner stood in the latest cited status report
In its report dated June 30, 2026, NASA’s Office of Inspector General said Crew Dragon had received NASA certification in 2020 and had flown 12 crewed missions to and from the ISS by the report date. The same report said Starliner remained uncertified after flight tests exposed unexpected issues with varying levels of mission risk. These are status findings as of that report, not permanent conclusions. NASA OIG’s management-report updates provide the dated status source.
Rank #4
- HOBBY MODEL KIT – Unassembled model packed in an envelope with easy to follow instructions. Ideal for ages 14 and up.
- NO GLUE OR SOLDER NEEDED – Parts can be easily clipped from the metal sheets. Tweezers are the recommended tool for bending and twisting the connection tabs.
- SPACE SHUTTLE DISCOVERY – 2 Sheet Model with a moderate difficulty level. 1:355 Scale. Assembled Size: 4.50 L x 2.80 W x 2.30 H inches.
- FROM STEEL SHEETS TO 3D – Pop out the pieces and connect using tabs and holes. Includes illustrated instructions.
- HIGHLY DETAILED ETCHED MODEL – Display your 3D model once completed - collect and build them all.
The OIG’s public summary said the 2024 Starliner crew flight test became a Type A mishap and that the next Starliner flight was planned to carry cargo before certification, to validate changes made after the crewed test. The watchdog also identified weaknesses and ambiguities in NASA oversight, including mishap reporting, schedule assumptions, and access to simulator-training data. Those findings describe specific program and oversight challenges; they are not evidence that NASA uses one mechanical formula to choose a spacecraft. The OIG’s June 30, 2026 summary reports those findings.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Model Kit
- May Require Paints and Glues to Assemble
- Accurate Scale Model
- Detailed Instructions Provided
- Decals/Transfers Included
What NASA’s choice means for passengers and missions
- Selection is a development decision: NASA chose providers whose proposed systems would be built and tested against the agency’s requirements.
- Certification is an evidence-based gate: A contract award, successful review, or individual test does not alone establish readiness for routine crewed service.
- Redundancy is a program goal, not an assumption of identical readiness: Selecting two providers creates the possibility of more than one U.S. crew-transport system, but each system must establish its own compliance and safety evidence.
- Status can change: The latest cited OIG report gives a date-specific account of certification and flight history; later NASA decisions or missions may alter it.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
