Vast Space to launch world's first commercial space station in 2026

In California, Vast Space is on a path to develop the world’s first commercial space station, known as Haven-1, with a target launch date set for May 2026. The project was officially announced in mid-2023, marking a significant venture into commercial spaceflight as the International Space Station (ISS) nears the end of its operational life. NASA aims to phase out the ISS by around 2030 and has begun collaborating with private companies to facilitate the transition to commercial alternatives. With its single-module design, Haven-1 will serve as a proof-of-concept and is planned to be in orbit for three years, supporting up to four crewed missions, each lasting two weeks and accommodating four astronauts. Vast Space, under the leadership of CEO Max Haot, has witnessed rapid growth, expanding its workforce from about 200 employees to nearly 950 since the project's inception. The company has also invested significantly in facilities to produce the Haven-1 module and aims to manufacture additional modules, including the larger Haven-2, which is still in early planning stages. As part of this project, the company has partnered with SpaceX for the launch, a strategic move that underscores the increasing involvement of private enterprises in space exploration. Haot emphasizes that the primary goal is to establish a reliable space station operation that successfully transports astronauts to and from orbit. The internal structure of Haven-1, while constrained in size compared to the ISS, will include essential amenities such as a dome window and high-speed internet through Starlink, to enhance the living conditions for crew members. Vast Space aims to provide a functional environment that prioritizes the well-being of astronauts, enabling them to perform their missions effectively without being a luxury hotel. Furthermore, the initial activities on Haven-1 will focus on research and manufacturing, particularly in pharmaceuticals, aligning with ongoing projects by companies like Redwire Space, which has conducted various studies aboard the ISS. The emergence of Haven-1 occurs against the backdrop of an increasingly crowded commercial space sector. Various other companies, including Starlab, Blue Origin, and Axiom Space, are also working on their own space stations. This growing competition reflects a shift in public and private perceptions of space exploration as viable commercial enterprises. However, establishing and maintaining space stations comes with high costs, raising questions about the long-term sustainability and financial viability of these projects in an industry that is still maturing. As the race for commercial space stations heats up, all eyes will be on Vast Space and its ability to deliver on its ambitious plans.