A Closer Look at NASA’s Multi-Purpose Crew Vehicle [Infographic]

Unless you’ve been patiently following the ups and downs of NASA’s now aborted Constellation program, the announcement yesterday of the Orion-derived Multi-Purpose Crew Vehicle (MPCV) may have seemed a touch confusing. If you’re unfamiliar with the program, or (like me) love drooling over NASA imagery, Space.com has put together a comprehensive inforgraphic showing off the new ship and its configurations. Particularly interesting is a comparative view, showing how the MPCV stacks up against orbiters from around the world and the venerable Space Shuttle.

Read on after the break to see the entire image, in all its glory.

(Space.com via The Universe Today)