What's Happening?
NASA has selected Vast, a California-based startup, to conduct the sixth private astronaut mission to the International Space Station (ISS), scheduled for no earlier than summer 2027. This mission marks a significant milestone for Vast, as it joins the ranks of private companies contributing to the orbital economy. The mission will follow the pattern of previous private astronaut flights, utilizing SpaceX hardware for transportation. Vast aims to leverage this mission as a stepping stone towards establishing a private space station in low Earth orbit, aligning with NASA's vision of transitioning to commercial space stations post-ISS decommissioning in 2030.
Why It's Important?
Vast's entry into the private astronaut mission arena underscores the growing role of
commercial entities in space exploration. This development is pivotal for NASA's strategy to foster a dynamic marketplace in low Earth orbit, enhancing American leadership in space. The mission not only represents a new opportunity for innovation and research but also signifies a shift towards a more commercially driven space economy. As private companies like Vast and Axiom Space expand their capabilities, they contribute to the sustainability and advancement of human spaceflight, potentially reducing costs and increasing access to space.
What's Next?
Vast plans to submit the names of four proposed crewmembers for NASA's approval, with the mission expected to follow the established pattern of private astronaut flights. The company also intends to launch a pathfinder station, Haven-1, in 2027, with the goal of developing a multi-module space station, Haven-2, in the following years. These efforts are part of a broader industry trend, with other companies like Blue Origin and Sierra Space also working on commercial space stations. The success of these initiatives will be crucial for the future of human space exploration and the development of a robust orbital economy.
