Groundbreaking Announcement

In a groundbreaking announcement at the International Astronautical Congress in Milan, Vast Space has revealed the design for its proposed commercial space station, Haven-2. This station aims to take over where the International Space Station (ISS) leaves off, as NASA seeks to transition to commercial successors for operations in Low Earth Orbit (LEO).

Vast is currently focused on its first space habitat, Haven-1, which is set to launch in late 2025. However, CEO Max Haot emphasized that Haven-2 is more than just an upgrade; it signifies their intention to become a key player in NASA’s Commercial Low Earth Orbit Destinations (CLD) program. "This is really our first opportunity to showcase our vision," Haot stated in an interview.

Launch Schedule and Capacity Expansion

The Haven-2 station will begin its deployment in the late 2020s, starting with a single 15-meter-long module launched aboard a Falcon Heavy rocket in 2028. This initial module will effectively double the usable space of Haven-1 and feature docking ports on both ends, allowing for greater flexibility in receiving additional modules. The subsequent three modules will follow approximately every six months, each outfitted with unique laboratory facilities to support scientific research.

By 2030, a larger core module with a diameter of seven meters will be launched on a SpaceX Starship. This new core will host the already docked modules in a cross-configuration, significantly enhancing the station's capabilities. It will come equipped with an airlock for spacewalks, a feature not currently mandated by NASA but one that Vast believes is essential for testing spacesuits and conducting EVAs in microgravity.

Ahead of the Competition

Once completed in 2032, Haven-2 will exceed the ISS in terms of capabilities, according to Haot. This ambition comes at a crucial time when competition in the commercial space sector is intensifying, with entities like Axiom Space and Blue Origin vying for the same NASA contracts. "Winning a phase-two CLD award is critical for the viability of Haven-2," Haot acknowledged, highlighting the competitive landscape of commercial space ventures.

Vast plans to use the foundation laid by Haven-1’s development to ensure that Haven-2 is cost-effective and constructed swiftly. The ultimate vision for the station includes innovative features, such as a 3.8-meter-wide cupola for breathtaking views of Earth and advanced airlock systems similar to those found on Japan’s ISS Kibo module.

Investment and Future Prospects

Vast is projected to have around $1 billion invested by the time Haven-1 launches, funded through a combination of private capital and customer revenue. This strategic investment will facilitate a seamless transition to Haven-2 while enhancing the overall infrastructure to meet future demands.

While Vast is initially focusing on NASA as an anchor client, Haot pointed out the long-term potential for Haven-2 to serve commercial markets, including in-space manufacturing of high-tech products. However, the time frame for these applications remains uncertain.

"By positioning ourselves effectively in the market, we believe we can maintain profitability," Haot concluded, implying that having established clients and robust partnerships with other space agencies could lead to sustained success.

As plans for Haven-2 crystallize, the world watches closely, eager to see if this new space station could indeed revolutionize the future of human endeavors in space. Will Vast Space lead the charge in commercial space exploration, or will competitors take the throne? Only time will tell!