Vast Space, a privately-held American aerospace company, has signed an order with NASA for its sixth private astronaut mission (PAM) to the International Space Station (ISS). The mission is targeted to launch no earlier than summer 2027 from Florida.
This will be Vast’s first private astronaut mission in partnership with NASA and marks a significant step toward commercial space station operations.
Mission Details
The crew is expected to spend up to 14 days aboard the ISS. The launch will take place using SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket, with astronauts traveling in a Dragon spacecraft. The final launch date will depend on space station traffic and operational planning.
According to Max Haot, CEO of Vast, utilizing the remaining life of the ISS for science-led commercial missions is essential for transitioning toward fully commercial space stations and expanding the orbital economy.
Haven-1: World’s First Commercial Space Station
Vast is developing Haven-1, expected to launch in 2027. It aims to become the world’s first commercial space station. Additional Haven modules are planned to enable a permanent human presence in orbit by 2030.
The upcoming mission will help Vast gain critical insights into infrastructure, safety systems, and operational procedures required for future human spaceflight missions.
Focus on Science and Research
The mission will prioritize:
- Biology and biotechnology research
- Physical sciences experiments
- Human research studies
- Technology demonstrations
Vast has already invited research proposals and signed an agreement with CASIS to enhance scientific output aligned with its long-term strategy.
Interest in Indian Market
Vast is also exploring opportunities in India. CEO Max Haot attended the Global Space Exploration Conference last year, focusing on collaborations in human spaceflight and space station development.
This agreement highlights growing private sector participation in space exploration and signals a shift toward commercially operated space stations in the coming decade.
MCQ’s
1. Vast Space has signed an order with which organization for a private astronaut mission to the ISS?
A. ESA
B. ISRO
C. NASA
D. SpaceX
2. The sixth private astronaut mission by Vast Space is targeted to launch no earlier than:
A. Summer 2025
B. Summer 2026
C. Summer 2027
D. Summer 2028
3. The mission will be launched using which rocket?
A. Starship
B. Falcon Heavy
C. Falcon 9
D. Atlas V
4. The astronauts will travel to the ISS aboard which spacecraft?
A. Orion
B. Dragon
C. Soyuz
D. Starliner
5. The crew of Vast’s private astronaut mission is expected to stay on the ISS for up to:
A. 7 days
B. 10 days
C. 14 days
D. 30 days
6. What is the name of Vast Space’s planned commercial space station?
A. Gateway-1
B. Haven-1
C. Orbital-X
D. Astra Station
7. Haven-1 is expected to launch in which year?
A. 2026
B. 2027
C. 2028
D. 2030
8. Vast plans to enable permanent human presence in orbit by:
A. 2028
B. 2029
C. 2030
D. 2035
9. Who is the CEO of Vast Space?
A. Elon Musk
B. Jim Free
C. Max Haot
D. Bill Nelson
10. Vast’s mission will primarily focus on research in which of the following areas?
A. Marine Biology
B. Biotechnology and Physical Sciences
C. Agriculture
D. Nuclear Engineering