Space venture Vast plans to initiate the first commercial space station in Low Earth Orbit, named Haven-1, to pave the way for business in the cosmos.
In a groundbreaking move, California-based space company Vast is set to launch its first commercial space station, Haven-1, aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket in May 2026[2]. This innovative orbital outpost promises to redefine access to space as a service offered by a commercial operator, marking a significant milestone in the global transition toward commercial space infrastructure[1].
Key features of Haven-1 include high-speed connectivity, courtesy of a Starlink laser terminal, which provides laser-speed, low-latency broadband for seamless scientific data transmission and communication with Earth[2]. The station is designed with crew comfort in mind, boasting private sleeping quarters, exercise systems, and a large dome window for Earth observation, aiming to provide both emotional comfort and visual inspiration[2][3].
Haven-1 is part of a modular design approach, with future stations planned for expansion. This core architecture allows for easier iteration, cost reduction, and adaptability for specialized missions[2]. Vast has partnered with SpaceX for launch services and docking system integration, as well as with Starlink, Redwire, Yuri Gravity, JAMSS, ESA, and others, indicating a broad strategic network[2][3].
New partners for Haven-1 payloads include Japan Manned Space Systems Corporation, Interstellar Lab, and Exobiosphere, emphasizing Haven-1’s role in biotechnology and pharmaceutical innovation[1].
Looking ahead, Vast plans to launch Haven-2, a multi-module orbital complex, aboard SpaceX’s Starship starting in 2028[2]. This larger, more permanent station will support up to 12 astronauts and feature a 3.8-meter window and external payload facilities operated by a large robotic arm—improvements that significantly increase research and observation capabilities[1].
Success of Haven-1 is critical to progressing toward Haven-2 and the future of commercial space habitation. Vast's approach with Haven-1 is to first demonstrate a viable commercial station with advanced connectivity, crew comfort, and scientific capabilities. This paves the way for the larger, more versatile Haven-2 station, designed for sustained human presence and expanded research in low Earth orbit[1][2][3].
[1] SpaceNews.com [2] Vast.space [3] Space.com
- The collaboration between Vast and Starlink, as part of the Haven-1 project, involves equipping the commercial space station with a Starlink laser terminal, a technology that enables high-speed, low-latency broadband for both scientific data transmission and communication with Earth.
- Vast's Haven-1, scheduled for launch in 2026, is designed to redefine the realm of aerospace manufacturing and technology, featuring amenities for crew comfort, specialized research facilities, and cutting-edge connectivity – paving the way for the future of space-and-astronomy infrastructure.
- Future partnerships for Haven-1 payloads, like Japan Manned Space Systems Corporation, Interstellar Lab, and Exobiosphere, will contribute to science and technological advancements in the field of biotechnology and pharmaceuticals, further emphasizing the significance of this commercial space station in these areas.
