SpaceX and California-based startup Vast have announced plans to send private crews to the International Space Station (ISS), marking a significant step in the evolution of commercial space exploration. The missions, unveiled on Thursday, are subject to NASA approval and aim to deepen collaboration with global space agencies.
Vast, which also seeks to launch the world’s first commercial space station as early as next year, sees these missions as a cornerstone of its strategy. “This is a key element of Vast’s vision, allowing us to strengthen partnerships with NASA and international space agencies,” said Max Haot, Vast’s CEO, in a statement. A timeline for these missions has yet to be disclosed.
Gwynne Shotwell, SpaceX’s President and COO, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, “We’re excited to work with Vast to create more opportunities and destinations for people to explore the stars.”
SpaceX, already a pioneer in private space missions, has conducted three private trips to the ISS with Axiom Space and is preparing for a fourth. Meanwhile, Vast revealed ongoing discussions with several governments, including the Czech Republic, to plan future missions.
As the ISS approaches its decommissioning in 2030, Vast is among the leading contenders to build and launch the first commercial space station. Competitors in this race include Axiom Space, Voyager Space in partnership with Airbus, and Blue Origin in collaboration with Sierra Space.
This initiative underscores the growing momentum in the commercialization of space travel, signaling a transformative era for human access to the cosmos.
