Vast Space, a California-based startup, has announced a revised launch date for its first commercial space station, Haven-1, now targeting May 2026. This follows the successful completion of a major test milestone for the station’s qualification module.
The company’s Haven-1 module underwent a rigorous pressure test, simulating the harsh conditions of space. The results showed an “indiscernible” leak rate, exceeding the spacecraft’s requirements and meeting NASA’s human-rated spacecraft qualifications. This achievement marks a significant step towards Vast Space’s ambitious goal of launching the world’s first commercial space station in a record-breaking timeframe.
Vast Space is aiming to secure NASA’s Commercial LEO Destination (CLD) contract in 2026, and its early launch schedule puts it ahead of other private companies vying for the same opportunity. As the International Space Station (ISS) approaches retirement in 2030, NASA is encouraging private companies to develop commercial space stations to continue research and exploration in low Earth orbit.
Haven-1 will be launched atop a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket, and Vast Space is actively seeking customers and scientists interested in conducting research in space. The company plans to launch a four-person crew to Haven-1 for a two-week mission to test the station’s systems and habitability.
Vast Space is also developing Haven-2, a second module designed to dock with Haven-1, expanding the station’s capabilities. The first launch of Haven-2 is currently targeted for 2028, with plans to continue expanding the modular station until 2032, eventually exceeding the current capabilities of the ISS.