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A Florida-based startup is developing 'Thunderbird', a next-generation commercial space station designed for single rocket launch deployment, aiming for operational status by 2029. This expandable orbital habitat will simplify construction, reduce launch costs, and support long-term human missions.

Upon reaching orbit, the station will expand to provide over 12,000 cubic feet of living space, comparable to larger multi-module stations. A prototype mission is scheduled for early 2027 to test critical systems, paving the way for human-rated missions.

The station can accommodate four astronauts and is adaptable for various scientific and manufacturing applications. With the International Space Station expected to retire by 2030, Thunderbird represents a scalable solution for future orbital infrastructure and may serve deep-space missions around the Moon and Mars.