Vast and SpaceX Plan Private Missions to the ISS

Vast Space, a developer of commercial space stations, has secured a deal with SpaceX to conduct two private astronaut missions to the International Space Station (ISS). This agreement, however, is contingent upon NASA’s approval of the proposed missions.

These missions are poised to utilize SpaceX’s Crew Dragon spacecraft for what NASA refers to as private astronaut missions (PAMs). These ventures are significant for Vast as they explore new avenues in human spaceflight and aim to strengthen their collaboration with NASA. These efforts also position Vast as a competitor in the race to develop a successor to the ISS, according to Max Haot, Chief Executive of Vast.

Gwynne Shotwell, President and COO of SpaceX, expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration, highlighting the potential to expand access to space travel to more people. Despite the optimistic outlook, NASA’s stamp of approval is still required for these missions to proceed. Currently, NASA has only awarded PAM opportunities to Axiom Space, which has completed three missions and is preparing for a fourth in the coming year.

Vast is not entering this field uncontested as Axiom Space recently disclosed plans to develop a commercial space station. Axiom intends to initially attach habitat and research modules to the ISS before transitioning to an independent station. Mark Greeley, Chief Operating Officer of Axiom Space, stated that Axiom would continue to pursue PAM opportunities as long as they remain available.

In addition to the current agreement for Crew Dragon missions, Vast had previously contracted SpaceX for the launch of its Haven-1 module. Haven-1 is expected to support up to four short-duration missions beginning in late 2025. This project serves as a precursor for Vast’s proposed Haven-2 space station, contributing to the company’s broader strategic initiatives.

Vast is actively discussing potential partnerships with government space agencies to participate in private astronaut missions. Notably, they have already engaged with the Czech Republic to explore flight opportunities for Czech astronauts on future missions.

The collaboration between Vast and SpaceX marks a significant development in the realm of private space missions, pending critical NASA approval. As both companies proceed with their ambitious plans, they contribute to a broader vision of expanding and democratizing access to space.

Source: Spacenews