New startup reveals design for the first ever commercial space station

Imagine looking at Earth through a panoramic window in a custom-designed private space — all while orbiting 400 kilometres above the planet. This vision of space living is set to become a reality with Haven-1, the world's first commercial space station.

Vast, a US-based space habitation technology company, has unveiled the final design of its groundbreaking Haven-1. It is claimed to be the first commercial space station, set to launch in 2025.

The station's interior emphasises comfort and efficiency, featuring soft, padded surfaces, personalised crew quarters, and a patent-pending sleep system designed to enhance rest in microgravity. A large central common area with modular spaces to collaborate, exercise, and relax incorporates an extensive observation window with unobstructed views of Earth.

Vast partnered with renowned industrial designer Peter Russell-Clarke and former NASA astronaut Andrew Feustel to deal with the unique challenges of life in zero gravity. The Haven-1 Lab, a microgravity research platform, will support scientific and industrial innovation with advanced capabilities like remote operation via SpaceX Starlink.

"We have big ambitions to create a future where everyone is living and thriving on Earth and in space," said Hillary Coe, Vast's chief design and marketing officer. 

The cost to stay aboard the Haven-1 still remains undisclosed. Considering a single trip to the International Space Station via a SpaceX Crew Dragon spacecraft will be priced around $55 million per seat, it is likely that this experience will be accessible primarily to the super-rich.