NASA has selected Vast for its sixth private astronaut mission to the International Space Station (ISS), with a launch planned for no earlier than summer 2027 from Florida. This mission marks a significant step for Vast, as it is the company’s first collaboration with NASA for a private astronaut program, reflecting ongoing efforts to enhance commercial activities in low Earth orbit.
The upcoming mission is anticipated to last up to 14 days aboard the ISS. A precise launch date will be determined based on traffic management and other logistical considerations concerning the space station.
Expanding Commercial Opportunities
NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman emphasized the importance of private astronaut missions, stating, “Private astronaut missions represent more than access to the International Space Station — they create opportunities for new ideas, companies, and capabilities that further enhance American leadership in low Earth orbit.”
This mission underscores NASA’s commitment to fostering a commercial space economy. Each new partnership contributes unique strengths that invigorate research and technology development, preparing for future missions to the Moon, Mars, and beyond.
Dana Weigel, manager of the International Space Station Program at NASA’s Johnson Space Center, noted, “The International Space Station plays an essential role in shaping the future of low Earth orbit. By hosting private astronaut missions, the station helps accelerate innovation, opens new commercial pathways, and advances research, strengthening the foundation of a thriving space economy.”
Mission Preparation and Collaboration
Vast will propose four crew members to NASA and its international partners, who will undergo rigorous training in collaboration with NASA and SpaceX. The company has secured a contract with SpaceX to provide transportation for the crew to and from the ISS.
Max Haot, CEO of Vast, expressed gratitude for the selection, stating, “Vast is honored to have been selected by NASA for the sixth private astronaut mission to the International Space Station. Leveraging the remaining life of the space station with science and research-led commercial crewed missions is a critical part of the transition to commercial space stations and fully unlocking the orbital economy.”
As part of the mission arrangement, Vast will acquire mission services from NASA that include crew consumables, cargo delivery, and in-orbit resources. NASA, in turn, will obtain the capability to return scientific samples that require cold storage during transit back to Earth.
This announcement follows a March 2025 NASA Research Announcement, through which proposals were evaluated to support future missions and scientific advancements. Missions aboard the ISS, including those involving private astronauts, are vital for advancing scientific knowledge and testing new technologies in the unique microgravity environment.
The development of commercial capabilities in low Earth orbit is crucial for supporting NASA’s long-term aspirations for deep space exploration, aligning with the agency’s Artemis campaign aimed at returning humans to the Moon and eventually sending them to Mars.
For detailed information about NASA’s commercial space strategy, visit NASA’s official website.
