Ex-Astronaut Joins Vast as Haven-1 Integration Begins
Vast, a company specializing in commercial space station development, has announced the hiring of former NASA astronaut Megan McArthur as an astronaut adviser. This news comes as the company delays the launch of its first space station, Haven-1. McArthur brings over 20 years of experience from NASA, having participated in significant missions including the final shuttle servicing of the Hubble Space Telescope in 2009.
Key Developments in Haven-1 Integration
The company confirmed on January 20 that it has commenced integration of Haven-1 at its facility in Long Beach, California. The integration process will include:
- Installation of pressurized fluid systems
- Avionics setup
- Interior outfitting
- Exterior installations, including shielding, radiators, and solar arrays
Originally planned for mid-2026, the launch of Haven-1 has now been postponed to the first quarter of 2027. Vast’s CEO, Max Haot, has emphasized the importance of schedule precision as the company’s operations mature.
Former Astronaut Expertise at Vast
Vast has strategically recruited a team of former astronauts to aid in its mission. Notable appointments include:
- Andrew Feustel: Lead astronaut at Vast
- Garrett Reisman: Astronaut adviser
- Naoko Yamazaki: General manager of Vast Japan
- Kathy Lueders: Adviser, former NASA associate administrator
This team is expected to contribute extensive knowledge in design and operational matters related to human spaceflight.
The Vision for Future Space Stations
Vast aims to pave the way for a sustainable future in orbit. Their business model focuses on integrating design, manufacturing, testing, and operations to enhance speed and autonomy. McArthur expressed her enthusiasm for contributing to Vast’s objectives, stating, “I’m excited to bring that experience forward and support Vast’s vision for the next era of human spaceflight.”
Vast’s Haven-1 space station will launch aboard a Falcon 9 rocket and is designed to accommodate visits from up to four Crew Dragon spacecraft for short-duration missions. The strategic hiring of experienced professionals reflects Vast’s commitment to advancing human spaceflight safety and operational excellence.
