SpaceX's Starlink to Provide Internet on world's first Private Space Station

image credit Vast

In a groundbreaking development, Vast's Haven 1, the world's first private space station, is set to receive high-speed internet connectivity through SpaceX's Starlink network. This collaboration marks a significant milestone in space communication, promising to deliver unparalleled broadband speeds to the crew aboard Haven 1.

Vast, a commercial space station developer, has announced that its upcoming Haven-1 station will utilize Starlink for broadband connectivity. The station, which is scheduled to launch in August 2025, will be equipped with laser inter-satellite link terminals to enable communication with Starlink satellites.

Max Haot, CEO of Vast, highlighted the capabilities of the Starlink terminals, stating that they would provide up to one gigabit per second connectivity. This level of service is not only impressive but essential for the various operations and experiments planned for Haven-1. The station will also feature 20 cameras mounted inside and outside, all requiring robust internet bandwidth.

“If you need to provide high-speed, low-latency, continuous internet connectivity on a space station in orbit in 2025, SpaceX Starlink is the only option,” said Max Haot, Vast’s CEO. "We expect their network and technology leading position to continue and accelerate over time, which is why we are excited to have the chance to partner with SpaceX on deploying their first laser connectivity for a space station”, he said.

The introduction of Starlink's internet service aboard Haven-1 is poised to give Vast a competitive advantage over other space stations, including the International Space Station (ISS). The ISS currently offers broadband internet with a speed of roughly 600 Mbps, whereas Haven-1 will surpass this with its gigabit-speed connectivity.

Enhancing Crew Experience and Operational Efficiency

The Starlink terminals will not only benefit the scientific and operational aspects of Haven-1 but also significantly enhance the crew's experience. Astronauts will be able to connect their personal devices via Wi-Fi to the Starlink network, allowing them to make video calls, stream videos, and even enjoy movies during their downtime.

A Step Forward for Private Space Exploration

Vast and SpaceX have reached an agreement for SpaceX to provide Starlink connectivity to future Vast platforms beyond Haven 1, including connectivity for Vast's next space station, which the company plans to bid for in NASA's upcoming commercial Low Earth Orbit destinations (CLDs) competition.

In May 2023, Vast announced that SpaceX will launch Haven-1, followed by two human spaceflight missions to the Haven-1 space station.

Vast's decision to partner with SpaceX for Haven-1's internet service underscores the growing trend of private companies playing a pivotal role in space exploration. This partnership is a testament to the innovative spirit driving the new era of space travel and the importance of reliable communication in these endeavors and will continue to create and accelerate greater accessibility to space and more opportunities for exploration on the road to making humanity multiplanetary. As we look towards the future, the success of Haven-1 could pave the way for more private space stations, all connected through the power of high-speed internet, making the cosmos a little more like home.