NASA Selects Vast for Sixth Private Mission to Space Station

NASA has selected the California startup Vast to operate the sixth private astronaut mission to the International Space Station (ISS). This mission is targeted for launch no earlier than summer 2027 from Florida. This selection marks Vast's first opportunity to send astronauts to the ISS, highlighting NASA's commitment to fostering a commercial space economy and expanding opportunities for private companies in space exploration. The announcement was made on February 12, 2023, as part of NASA's ongoing efforts to engage with commercial partners in the space sector. Vast's mission will follow a series of previous private astronaut missions, including four conducted by Axiom Space, which has been awarded the right for a fifth visit to the ISS in January 2026. This new partnership with Vast signifies a broader trend of increasing private sector involvement in space missions, as NASA continues to explore ways to enhance the orbital economy. The selection of Vast for this mission underscores the agency's strategy to diversify its partnerships and leverage the capabilities of emerging commercial space companies. By allowing private entities to participate in missions to the ISS, NASA aims to stimulate innovation and growth within the space industry, ultimately benefiting scientific research and exploration efforts. The collaboration with Vast is expected to contribute to the development of a sustainable commercial presence in low Earth orbit.