Vast Integrates Haven-1 with Former Astronaut on Team; NASA Funding Concerns for 2027
Vast is integrating its Haven-1 commercial space station, utilizing the expertise of former astronauts. The single-module station will launch on a Falcon 9 rocket and accommodate up to four Crew Dragon spacecraft for short missions.
In other news, Rep. Meng (D, NY) noted that while the fiscal year 2026 NASA funding package is better than anticipated, there is still 'room for improvement' for 2027. Blue Origin conducted its first New Shepard mission of 2026, replacing a sick customer with Laura Stiles, director of launch operations.
Meanwhile, the Shenzhou-20 spacecraft survived reentry as Shenzhou-23 arrived at the spaceport, with Shenzhou-21 astronauts conducting an EVA to inspect damage. Research revealed vulnerabilities in satellite communications, with nearly half of the data unencrypted.
Tomorrow.io introduced DeepSky, a constellation aimed at enhancing atmospheric data for AI-driven decision systems. Finally, Max Space is exploring expandable space stations to lower costs and complexity in orbit.
