The International Space Station (ISS) has been a prominent symbol of human advancement in space since 2000. However, like any other machinery, the ISS is not eternal and has a finite lifespan. It is estimated to be decommissioned and projected into a swift plunge to incinerate in Earth’s atmosphere within the next seven years.

Understanding the importance of maintaining a human presence in near-Earth orbit, NASA is motivating private companies to design and launch their own space stations. The upcoming year could be a significant one for this objective, as Vast Space, a company based in California, plans to launch Haven-1. This cutting-edge, astronaut-ready single-module facility is set to become the first commercial space station to enter orbit.

Vast Space is optimistic that a successful launch and occupancy of the Haven-1 module will strengthen its application for NASA’s Commercial Low-Earth Orbit Destination (CLD) Phase II program. This program, set for 2026, aims to select a minimum of two providers for constructing commercial space stations for orbital operations.

If Vast Space receives the green light from NASA, it would lay the groundwork for the Haven-2 facility, a more intricate, multi-module station. The company anticipates that the deployment could begin in 2028 and be finalized by 2032.

“Haven-2 is being developed with the intent of compatibility, making sure that international partners can effortlessly integrate into this next-gen platform,” said Andrew Feustel, a Vast adviser and experienced NASA astronaut. He further emphasized that this vision of global collaboration in space would pave the way for scientific and technological progress, benefiting both existing and new sovereign partners, as well as industries worldwide.

Several other companies are also vying for NASA’s selection in the CLD Phase II program, with the goal of constructing a space station. These include Blue Origin, leading a consortium with Sierra Space, Boeing, and Redwire for the Orbital Reef facility; Voyager Space and Nanoracks, partnering with Airbus Defense and Space for the Starlab Space Station; and Axiom Space, which has been gaining valuable experience through private astronaut missions to the ISS.

While all these selections by NASA are crucial, Vast Space stands out as it aims to make significant strides in the next year by being the first to launch a commercial space station in near-Earth orbit.