Sebastian Lunes 
As the International Space Station (ISS) approaches the end of its life, SpaceX and Los Angeles-based startup Vast have joined forces to introduce an ambitious plan to launch the first-ever commercial space station. This significant development marks a crucial step toward the future of low-Earth orbit operations and opens new opportunities for both space agencies and private individuals interested in scientific research and philanthropic projects.
The Vision for the Commercial Space Station
SpaceX, renowned for its groundbreaking achievements in space exploration, will utilize its Falcon 9 rocket to launch the primary module of the commercial space station, named Haven-1, into low-Earth orbit as early as August 2025. Following shortly after, Vast will introduce the larger Vast-1 module, accompanied by a SpaceX Crew Dragon spacecraft carrying four astronauts. This select crew will inhabit the station for approximately 30 days before returning to Earth via the Crew Dragon capsule.
Embracing the Commercial Space Era
The collaboration between SpaceX and Vast represents the dawn of a new era for low-Earth orbit operations. SpaceX executive Tom Ochinero expressed enthusiasm for this commercial endeavor, stating, “A commercial rocket launching a commercial spacecraft with commercial astronauts to a commercial space station is the future of low-Earth orbit, and with Vast, we’re taking another step toward making that future a reality.”
Vast’s Role in Space Habitation Technologies
Vast, a Los Angeles-based startup specializing in space habitation technologies, aims to sell all four seats on the maiden mission to a diverse range of customers. These customers may include domestic and international space agencies, as well as private individuals involved in scientific research and philanthropic ventures. While pricing details have not yet been disclosed, Vast’s involvement highlights the growing interest in commercial space activities beyond government-funded programs.
Training and Safety Measures
SpaceX will assume responsibility for training the four crew members participating in the Crew Dragon flight aboard the Falcon 9 rocket. Rigorous training will ensure their preparedness for the mission and the journey back to Earth inside the spacecraft. Safety remains a paramount concern, as this mission will be among the first of its kind for a commercial space station.
The Future Landscape of Low-Earth Orbit
With the ISS scheduled for decommissioning in 2031, private companies are stepping up to fill the void by developing their own space stations. Blue Origin, led by Jeff Bezos, plans to launch the Orbital Reef facility by 2030, while Voyager Space, Lockheed Martin, and Nanoracks are targeting the deployment of the Starlab station in 2027. Another notable player in this expanding field is Axiom, which aims to launch its space station around the same time as Vast. Furthermore, Airbus has recently revealed a concept design for a future space station. However, the complexity of these projects may result in adjustments to their deployment timelines.
Long-Term Aspirations for Vast
Vast’s ultimate objective is to establish a 100-meter-long, multi-module, spinning, artificial gravity space station. This ambitious vision will likely rely on SpaceX’s Starship rocket for its launch. However, the realization of this long-term goal depends on the successful orbital flights of the Starship, which are yet to be accomplished.
