Vast, a California-based startup, is making significant progress towards launching the first commercial space station, Haven-1. Recently, the company completed crucial tests on qualification vessels and reassessed the timeline for their first flight-ready module. Although they’ve delayed the launch originally scheduled for May 2026, Vast remains optimistic about launching Haven-1 into low-Earth orbit via SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket, with plans for an initial mission in August.
The testing involved using dry nitrogen to pressurize the modules, confirming they meet NASA’s structural integrity requirements. As the International Space Station (ISS) nears the end of its operational life in 2030, NASA is eager to support the development of commercial space stations, with numerous private companies, including Axiom Space and Northrop Grumman, also vying for contracts.
Vast has started searching for clients interested in utilizing the station for research and has initiated construction of the Haven-1 flight module concurrently with the testing of the qualification module. They plan to launch four astronauts aboard SpaceX’s Crew Dragon for a two-week mission to assess the station’s systems.
Looking ahead, Vast has announced plans for the Haven-2, a modular extension aimed to increase the station’s capacity and capabilities, with a target launch in 2028 and ongoing expansion plans until 2032.
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