Vast to Collaborate with CASIS on ISS Research Access

Vast to Collaborate with CASIS on ISS Research Access
by Clarence Oxford
Los Angeles CA (SPX) Apr 14, 2025

Vast, a leader in orbital habitation systems, has finalized a strategic partnership with the Center for the Advancement of Science in Space (CASIS) to enable new research initiatives aboard the International Space Station (ISS) National Laboratory. This collaboration strengthens Vast's standing in NASA's private astronaut mission (PAM) ecosystem and underscores its dedication to advancing space-based science and commercial development.

The agreement, awarded by CASIS, recognizes Vast for its cutting-edge spacecraft platforms and its commercially driven approach to expanding human activity in low-Earth orbit. These innovations aim to broaden in-orbit servicing capabilities and extend ISS access to new participants in space research.

Working alongside CASIS, Vast will support scientific and technical projects aligned with future NASA PAMs, particularly those involving astronauts and agencies with proposed ISS missions. The partnership provides a direct pathway for Vast to test its technologies in microgravity and deepen its engagement with NASA as it progresses toward building an ISS successor under the Commercial LEO Development Program.

"This agreement gives Vast direct access to the ISS-a critical step as we prepare our NASA Private Astronaut Mission bid," said Max Haot, CEO of Vast. "It enables us to fly science, validate our technologies in microgravity, and continue close collaboration with NASA-all of which are essential as we advance the design of our proposed ISS replacement and solidify our role as a NASA Commercial LEO Development Program partner."

Vast and CASIS share a common ambition to foster greater commercial and international use of space as a research frontier. Their joint efforts will help accelerate innovations that support human life and industry both in orbit and on Earth.

"The role of the ISS National Lab is to open access and opportunity for the research community, and those seeking to advance technologies onboard this unique orbiting outpost. We're excited to collaborate with, and support Vast as they ambitiously seek to push the limits of innovation, inspiration, and participation beyond Earth's horizons," added Ray Lugo, CEO of CASIS.

In 2024, Vast declared its intention to pursue upcoming NASA private astronaut missions, reinforcing that goal in December by securing two SpaceX Dragon flights to the ISS. These missions are intended to strengthen Vast's future PAM proposals.