Vast Space to launch Haven-1, the world’s first private space station, in 2026
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Vast Space is set to make history in 2026 with the launch of Haven-1, the world’s first privately owned space station.
The single-module orbital habitat will be launched aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket and will host short 10-day missions carrying four astronauts each.
According to the company, final welds on the station’s primary structure are complete, and technicians are now installing critical systems, including life-support equipment and a 1.1-meter domed observation window.
NASA is supporting the testing of Haven-1’s systems as part of its push toward safe and innovative commercial spaceflight.
As described on Vast Space’s official website, Haven-1 is designed to be a minimalist laboratory by space station standards. The cylindrical module provides around 45 cubic meters of interior volume - about the size of a tour bus. It includes four small crew quarters, lockers for scientific equipment, and a shared area for dining and experiments.
Each mission will see four astronauts spend roughly ten days aboard the station. They will be transported to and from orbit using SpaceX’s Dragon capsule. The station’s life-support system will rely on proven shuttle-era technology and operates using an “open-loop” design.
Vast confirmed that Haven-1’s primary hull has been fully welded and painted. Current work focuses on integrating key systems, such as the station’s hatch and domed window. The 14-ton module will undergo vibration and thermal-vacuum testing at NASA’s Glenn Research Center in early 2026.
Earlier, in the first half of 2012, NASA validated the air filtration system used on Haven-1, confirming its ability to effectively remove toxins from the station’s atmosphere.
SpaceX is under contract to launch Haven-1 into orbit aboard a Falcon 9 rocket, with liftoff scheduled for spring 2026.
The mission will mark a significant step forward in private space exploration, offering a new platform for short-duration crewed missions in low Earth orbit.