ESA and Vast Forge Agreement to Explore Commercial Space Station Collaboration

The European Space Agency (ESA) and space infrastructure company Vast have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to explore potential collaborations on commercial space stations.The MoU was signed on June 6 during the ILA Berlin air show, marking a significant step towards strengthening the partnership between the two entities.

The agreement outlines a collaborative study focusing on how ESA and its member states could utilize Vast’s commercial space stations, starting with Haven-1, which Vast plans to launch in the latter half of next year. The study will also identify opportunities for European industry to provide components for Vast’s space stations, and the potential use of future European crew and cargo spacecraft.

“Today ESA has further proven its determination to play a crucial role into the further development of the LEO economy in space for Europe and European citizens...Our teams are looking forward to working closely with Vast teams to ensure the European interests and our collective role in space exploration.” - Josef Aschbacher, Director General of ESA.

“The European ecosystem, led by ESA, is a very important partner to any future ISS replacement station...A big priority for us is that we build to their requirements and we enable opportunities to fly their payloads and astronauts.” - Max Haot, Chief Executive of Vast

he long-term objective of the agreement is focused on developing and offering a space station to NASA through the agency’s Commercial Low Earth Orbit Destinations (CLD) program. However, it also includes potential opportunities for ESA astronauts or payloads on the smaller Haven-1 station.

The MoU could further encompass private astronaut missions (PAMs) that Vast might secure from NASA to the ISS. Vast had previously announced its intent to compete for future PAMs to the ISS, an area where Axiom Space has so far secured all four PAMs awarded by NASA.

NASA is expected to release a solicitation for the next PAM competition for new mission before the end of the year.

In addition to discussions with ESA, Vast is in talks with other countries, including current ISS partners, about the utilization of its space stations.

“We’re engaging all countries, including key ones that are part of the ISS,...ESA is the first, but we obviously hope to build momentum in Europe and other regions of the world.” - Max Haot, Chief Executive of Vast

This agreement between ESA and Vast signifies a strategic move towards the future of low Earth orbit commercial endeavors, potentially paving the way for greater international cooperation and industry participation in space exploration and development.