UAE Astronauts Poised for New Space Station Missions

Vast Space has announced plans for two commercial stations, Haven-1 and Haven-2, aimed at filling the gap left by the ISS. Competing in NASA’s Private Astronaut Mission (PAM) programme, the company hopes to secure SpaceX rocket seats for missions before the ISS is retired. Vast Space CEO Max Haot highlighted the UAE’s advanced space capabilities, describing the nation as an ideal partner for Haven-1’s inaugural crew. ‘The UAE is deeply committed to space exploration, and its sovereign astronaut programme aligns perfectly with our vision for international collaboration,’ he noted.

The UAE faces competition in the sector from Houston-based Axiom Space, which has successfully conducted three private missions – including sending Saudi and Emirati astronauts to the ISS. Axiom’s collaboration with the UAE enabled Dr. Sultan Al Neyadi’s six-month ISS mission last year. With private missions anticipated in 2026 and 2027, the UAE continues to strengthen its position as a key player in human spaceflight.

Beyond low-Earth orbit, the UAE’s ambitions extend to lunar exploration. The country is contributing an airlock module to NASA’s Gateway lunar station – securing an Emirati seat on a future mission. Joint initiatives with Saudi Arabia are also under discussion, underscoring the region’s collaborative approach to space exploration. With a highly skilled astronaut corps – including Hazza Al Mansouri, Nora Al Matrooshi, and Mohammed Al Mulla – the UAE is poised to drive advancements in human space exploration and cement its leadership in the Middle East.