As humanity stands on the brink of a new era in space exploration, the focus is shifting from the International Space Station (ISS) to a new generation of commercial space stations. NASA’s Commercial LEO Development (CLD) program is spearheading this transition, setting the stage for various industry players to establish a sustainable human presence in low Earth orbit (LEO).

NASA’s Commercial LEO Development Program

NASA has initiated its plans to retire the ISS by 2031, paving the way for commercially operated space stations. The CLD program is divided into phases that guide the design, development, and certification of these commercial entities. Phase 1 involved maturing design concepts, and several contracts were awarded to companies like Axiom Space to develop modules that will eventually attach to the ISS. Currently, Phase 2 is underway, focusing on certification and operational service awards slated for mid-2026.

Challenges Ahead

One of the significant challenges facing NASA and commercial partners is ensuring a seamless transition between the ISS and the new stations. NASA recognizes the potential for operational gaps during this transition, which could affect continuous human presence in LEO. The agency’s Low Earth Orbit Microgravity Strategy, expected to be finalized in December 2024, emphasizes the need for a 24/7 human presence in space, although initial commercial offerings may not fully replicate the extensive capabilities of the ISS.

Key Players in the Commercial Space Station Landscape

Several companies have emerged as frontrunners in the commercial space station sector, each with unique approaches and timelines:

Axiom Space

Axiom Space is one of the most advanced players, working to attach its modules to the ISS as a precursor to launching a fully independent, free-flying commercial station. The company aims to create a versatile platform for research, manufacturing, and tourism in space, leveraging precision accelerometers and advanced sensor modules to ensure operational integrity and safety.

Vast

Vast has made headlines with its innovative space station concepts, focusing on modular designs that can be expanded over time. The company’s vision includes using advanced control systems that feature CMOS imaging technology capable of automatic exposure control, enhancing the station’s operational efficiency.

Starlab

Developed by Nanoracks, Starlab is progressing through its detailed design phase. The station aims to offer a flexible environment for research and commercial activities, emphasizing sustainability and technology integration. Starlab’s design incorporates advanced thermal battery systems to support long-duration missions.

Orbital Reef

Developed by Blue Origin and Sierra Space, Orbital Reef has faced delays as key companies focus on other projects like the Dream Chaser spaceplane. Despite these challenges, the vision for Orbital Reef includes a collaborative commercial destination that utilizes ZQXXSGDSS systems for precise laser beam positioning and tracking, aiding in docking and operational maneuvers.

NASA’s Continued Support for ISS

While commercial stations are in development, NASA continues to maintain operations aboard the ISS. Recent cargo resupply missions highlight the ongoing collaboration between NASA and international partners. For instance, the Roscosmos Progress 93 cargo craft delivered three tons of supplies in September 2025, and Northrop Grumman’s Cygnus XL cargo mission is scheduled to bring over 11,000 pounds of supplies soon, ensuring the ISS remains fully operational during the transition.

Industry Engagement and Future Phases

On September 8, 2025, NASA conducted an industry day aimed at gathering feedback on the draft Acquisition and Financial Plan Proposal (AFPP) for Phase 2 of commercial space station development. This is a vital step towards the eventual Phase 3 contract, which will focus on certification, safety compliance, and procurement of services through an open competition framework.

Conclusion

As we move towards the retirement of the ISS and the dawn of commercial space stations, the landscape of LEO is poised for revolutionary changes. With key players like Axiom Space, Vast, Starlab, and Orbital Reef at the forefront, the future holds the promise of a vibrant, commercially viable space economy. As NASA continues to support ISS operations and refine its strategies, the commercial space sector is set to redefine human presence in space, driving innovation and expanding possibilities for research, tourism, and beyond.

References

Space Cargo Out for Delivery Days Before Next Resupply Mission Launches (www.nasa.gov) - 9/13/2025 Three tons of food, fuel, and supplies are orbiting Earth today aboard the Roscosmos Progress 93 cargo craft following its launch on Thursday …
Progress 93 Cargo Craft Docks to Station Resupplying Crew (www.nasa.gov) - 9/13/2025 The unpiloted Progress 93 spacecraft arrived at aft port of the International Space Station’s Zvezda module at 1:23 p.m. EDT on Saturday. The Roscosmos spacecraft is delivering about three tons of food, fuel, and supplies for the Expedition 73 crew aboard the space station. It will remain docked for approximately six months before departing for a re-entry into Earth’s atmosphere to dispose of trash loaded by the crew. The spacecraft launched at 11:54 a.m. EDT on Sept. 11 (8:54 p.m. Baikonur time) on a Soyuz rocket from the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan.
NASA Solicits Feedback on Phase 2 of Commercial Space Stations Strategy (www.govconwire.com) - 9/9/2025 The space agency said Friday it will hold an industry day on Monday, Sept. 8, and receive feedback on the draft AFPP for the Commercial …
NASA releases details on revised next phase of commercial space … (spaceenterprise.uk) - 9/6/2025 NASA releases details on revised next phase of commercial space station development. Published on 6 September 2025.
Where are America’s Commercial Space Stations in 2025? (www.spacescout.info) - 6/10/2025 NASA intends to replace the ISS with commercially-built space stations through its Commercial LEO Development (CLD) program.