An American aerospace company has announced its intention to deploy the first privately-operated space station for astronauts by 2027, according to statements made by the firm’s chief executive at a conference in Riyadh.
Max Haot, CEO of VAST Space, presented the organization’s strategy for the Haven-1 station during the Space Debris Conference 2026, as documented by the Saudi Press Agency on Wednesday.
According to Haot, Haven-1 constitutes the initial stage of an extended strategy to establish commercial orbital facilities, which will enable continuous human activity in low Earth orbit over time.
This initiative aligns with the worldwide shift toward privately-operated space infrastructure as the International Space Station nears the conclusion of its service life, anticipated around the end of 2030.
The ISS, a collaborative effort involving NASA along with space agencies from Russia, Europe, Japan, and Canada, began its orbital operations in 1998.
Haven-1 has been engineered to accommodate four astronauts during brief missions, while facilitating scientific experiments, technological testing, and commercial activities within a weightless environment.
Haot noted that the facility’s engineering prioritizes safety and long-term viability, incorporating protective measures against orbital debris and established protocols for controlled re-entry procedures.
The organization targets generating operational income through four crewed expeditions, complemented by scientific and commercial cargo operations and collaborative agreements, spanning the period from 2027 through 2030.
Haot conveyed optimism regarding the company’s advancement and validation activities throughout 2025.
