Category Archives: Space Settlement

In Space Infrastructure, Living in Space, Space Settlement

Space habitation report – Dec.5.2025

December 5, 2025 TopSpacer

Here is a new selection of videos, articles, and news items about space habitats (govt and commercial), living in space, and space settlement.

=== International Space Station & NASA

** The International Space Station marks 25 years of continuous crew | SpaceNews on Youtube

The International Space Station marked the 25th anniversary of continuous human presence amid questions about what will replace it and when.

** ISS parking spaces full: Space Station First: All Docking Ports Fully Occupied, 8 Spacecraft on Orbit | NASA – Dec.1.2025

For the first time in International Space Station history, all eight docking ports aboard the orbital outpost are occupied following the reinstallation of Northrop Grumman’s Cygnus XL cargo spacecraft to the Earth-facing port of the station’s Unity module. The eight spacecraft attached to the complex are: two SpaceX Dragons, Cygnus XL, JAXA’s (Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency) HTV-X1, two Roscosmos Soyuz crew spacecraft, and two Progress cargo ships.

This milestone follows the reattachment of the Cygnus XL spacecraft, supporting the Northrop Grumman-23 commercial resupply services mission for NASA, which was removed last week by the robotics officer at the agency’s Mission Control Center in Houston using the space station’s Canadarm2 robotic arm. The Cygnus XL movement was coordinated between NASA, Northrop Grumman, and Roscosmos to provide appropriate clearance for the arriving crewed Soyuz MS-28 spacecraft on Nov. 27.

Cygnus will remain attached to the orbiting laboratory until no earlier than March 2026, when it is scheduled to safely depart and dispose of up to 11,000 pounds of trash and unneeded cargo when it harmlessly burns up in Earth’s atmosphere.

A rendering of the ISS with visiting spacecraft filling all the available docking spots. Credits: NASA

** HTV-X1 launch | SciNews

JAXA’s first HTV-X cargo transfer spacecraft (HTV-X1) was launched by the seventh H3 Launch Vehicle (H3-24W / H3 F7) from the Yoshinobu Launch Complex, Tanegashima Space Center, Japan, on 26 October 2025, at 00:00:15 UTC (09:00:15 JST). Credit: JAXA

** NASA Astronaut Jonny Kim Advances Research Aboard Space Station | NASA Johnson

NASA astronaut Jonny Kim is wrapping up his first mission aboard the International Space Station in early December. During his stay, Kim conducted scientific experiments and technology demonstrations to benefit humanity on Earth and advance NASA’s Artemis campaign in preparation for future human missions to Mars. Take a look at some of the science Kim completed during his mission: https://go.nasa.gov/4atrCZb

** Astronaut Discuss Life In Space With The Washington Post’s Global Summit Thursday, November 20, 2025 | NASA Video

Aboard the International Space Station, NASA astronaut Zena Cardman discussed life and work aboard the orbital outpost during an in-flight interview Nov. 20 with attendees of the Washington Post’s Global Women’s Summit Meeting. Cardman is in the midst of a long-duration mission aboard the microgravity laboratory to advance scientific knowledge and demonstrate new technologies for future human and robotic exploration flights as part of NASA’s Moon and Mars exploration approach, including lunar missions through NASA’s Artemis program.

=== Commercial space habitats

** Axiom Space

— Habitat window view:

The AxEO (Axiom Space Earth Observatory) features 8 of the largest window panes ever constructed for space. The special acrylic formulation for the windows was tested on the exterior of the International Space Station and post-flight analysis confirmed its compatibility with the… pic.twitter.com/XhSCrarT9n

— Michael L-A (@CommanderMLA) December 5, 2025

— Axiom and Elevation Space to develop systems and techniques for sending and returning payloads to and from the Axiom space station: Axiom Space, ElevationSpace Sign Agreement to Assess High-Frequency Re-Entry and Recovery Services | Axiom Space – Oct.30.2025

Axiom Space, a leader in human spaceflight services and developer of era-defining space infrastructure, and ElevationSpace Inc., a pioneering Japanese startup specializing in space environment utilization and recovery platforms, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to explore collaborative opportunities in high-frequency re-entry and recovery services for commercial space stations.

This strategic partnership aims to leverage the strengths of both companies to enhance the capabilities of orbital infrastructure, including the future Axiom Station. The collaboration will focus on technology demonstrations involving ElevationSpace’s ELS-RS payload handling and re-entry/recovery systems, which are designed to optimize operations in low-Earth orbit and beyond. The ELS-RS system once complete, will provide capabilities to store scientific data/payloads under controlled conditions and return them quickly and safely to an exact, specified location on the planet. This will enable Axiom Space to deliver important research to our customers and partners with increased speed and flexibility.

— Axiom and Resonac to study semiconductor manufacturing in microgravity on the Axiom station : Axiom Space and Resonac Sign MOU to Advance Space-Based Semiconductor Manufacturing | Axiom Space – Oct.1.2025

Axiom Space, a leader in commercial space infrastructure, and Resonac Corporation (“Resonac”), a leading provider of cutting-edge materials solutions in the semiconductor industry, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to collaborate on the research, development and manufacturing of high-performance semiconductor materials in the environment of space. This collaboration paves the way toward leveraging microgravity to advance next-generation chip technologies and accelerate the in-space manufacturing market.

“The unique environment of space offers immense potential for advancing semiconductor materials, especially in crystal growth,” said Masato Fukushima, Resonac Chief Technology Officer. “Partnering with Axiom Space, we aim to accelerate experiments and drive innovation in materials, fostering industrial growth and societal progress.”

— Habitat window glass testing

Proof acceptance testing is underway for the Crew Quarter Window Glass Debris Pane. What seems like a simple screening is actually a detailed process that looks for flaws in each pane of glass by applying an envelope of loads the pane will experience through launch and while on… pic.twitter.com/L33paXINx3

— Axiom Space (@Axiom_Space) November 17, 2025

— Windows and shutters for the Axiom station:

Functional testing of the Crew Quarter Window Shutter Assembly is underway. Axiom Station crewmembers will be able to operate the window shutters from inside their rooms to block light, heat, and protect them from the orbital debris environment. pic.twitter.com/HtvSnhzFx1

— Axiom Space (@Axiom_Space) October 28, 2025

** Starlab – Voyager Technologies

— Interview with Dylan Taylor, CEO of Voyager: Space CEO explains why he believes private space stations are a viable business | Ars Technica – Dec.1.2025

… Time is running out for NASA if it wants to establish continuity from the International Space Station, which will reach its end of life in 2030, with a follow-on station ready to go before then.

One of the more intriguing companies in the competition is Voyager Technologies, which recently announced a strategic investment from Janus Henderson, a global investment firm. In another sign that the competition is heating up, Voyager also just hired John Baum away from Vast, where he was the company’s business development leader.

To get a sense of this competition and how Voyager is coming along with its Starlab space station project, Ars spoke with the firm’s chairman, Dylan Taylor….

— Habitat airlock

.@voyagertech_ brings proven flight heritage to Starlab. The Bishop Airlock, the first and only commercial airlock on the International Space Station, supports advanced robotics testing, on-orbit maneuvers, payload transfers, efficient trash deployment, and more. That same level… pic.twitter.com/xF24Rmp8tD

— Starlab (@Starlab_Space) December 1, 2025

— Cybersecurity audit passed

Starlab is proud to announce that we have successfully passed our CMMC Level 2 audit, a milestone achieved by less than 0.5 percent of companies in the Defense Industrial Base. This certification validates the strength of our cybersecurity program and confirms full implementation… pic.twitter.com/TwyvPCicNp

— Starlab (@Starlab_Space) December 3, 2025

— Reimagining Space Stations for the Commercial Age | SpaceNews on Youtube

In this episode of Space Minds, host Mike Gruss sits down with Marshall Smith, CEO of Starlab Space for a fireside chat at the Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg Center, the next installment of the Center’s Discovery Series.

In the fireside chat, they explored how today’s commercial space pioneers are turning concepts once rooted in science fiction into operational reality.

Smith reflects on his path from NASA engineer to leading the development of a next-generation commercial space station—one designed for science, manufacturing, and a future where private industry drives a sustainable economy in low Earth orbit. From market demand to design philosophy to the race toward a 2029 launch, Smith explains why he believes continuous human presence in space is essential, and how innovations in microgravity research and AI-driven operations could redefine what’s possible both on orbit and on Earth.

— Leidos Inc to provide assistance in assembly, integration, and testing of Starlab station: Starlab Names Leidos as Primary Assembly, Integration and Testing Provider | Starlab – Nov.5.2025

Today, we announced that @LeidosInc will lead Starlab’s U.S.-based assembly, integration and testing (AI&T) activities for our next-generation space station. The collaboration reflects Starlab’s ongoing strategy to align with proven aerospace leaders and reduce risk across… pic.twitter.com/pa099Gp9ry

— Starlab (@Starlab_Space) November 5, 2025

— Preliminary design review (PDR) of subsystems:

The second week of our subsystem PDR review is underway. We’re evaluating major elements, confirming that design requirements are met, and that systems are ready to advance toward final integration. Together, these reviews validate that the station’s architecture, subsystems, and… pic.twitter.com/UwNeLRi8Nm

— Starlab (@Starlab_Space) October 29, 2025

— Starlab conference: Starlab European User Conference – Berlin, Germany – Oct.20-22.2025

The inaugural Starlab European User Conference brings together industry professionals, Space Agency representatives, policy makers and researchers to explore how the Low-Earth Orbit and microgravity environment can be leveraged for high-impact research and the development of new products and technologies.

Attendees will learn about the latest advances in human space exploration and explore how Starlab’s cutting-edge capabilities will enable groundbreaking research in fields such as materials science, biotechnology, and Earth observation. The event offers a unique platform for networking, collaboration, and learning, featuring keynote speeches, panel discussions and workshops.

** VAST

— MOUs signed with two countries:

— Docking adapter milestone:

Haven-1 docking adapter fit check at Vast headquarters. In October, we completed the fit check of Haven-1’s fully tested passive docking hardware—likely the first flight model passive docking adapter for a commercial station. This milestone marks a major step toward launch. pic.twitter.com/M5eI7GDcJL

— Vast (@vast) December 3, 2025

— Food systems development:

Our Food Systems team has completed its first in-house freeze-drying run. This marks a major step in our work to develop food designed specifically for spaceflight. Each batch helps us refine flavor, texture, and rehydration as we build a nutrition program for future crews. pic.twitter.com/LId43lKHpp

— Vast (@vast) November 26, 2025

— VAST launches 500 kg Haven Demo spacecraft to test technologies for Haven-1 space station: Vast completes Haven-1 structural testing, launches pathfinder mission | NASASpaceFlight.com – Nov.3.2025

Mission Success.

Haven Demo, our Haven-1 space station technologies test bed is now on orbit and healthy. Watch footage from our onboard cameras in full duration 4K. More to come. pic.twitter.com/nlVD3I5TpG

— Vast (@vast) November 4, 2025

— Meanwhile, Haven-1 construction and testing continues:

The next phase of Haven-1 begins.

The flight primary structure has returned to Vast headquarters in Long Beach, CA for the final weld inspections and integration. pic.twitter.com/P12hiDOqFX

— Vast (@vast) November 1, 2025

— Vast: American-made space stations | VAST Youtube

The final weld of Haven-1’s primary structure marks the completion of the first space station flight article to be built and manufactured in the US in over 20 years. It’s the third major structure that Vast has completed in two years.

— How Vast plans to keep humanity in orbit | SpaceNews

In this episode of Space Minds, host David Ariosto speaks with Max Haot, CEO of Vast, the ambitious aerospace company based in Long Beach, California, one of a very companies few working diligently towards the first commercial space station.

Just days after the successful launch of Vast’s pathfinder mission, Haot shares what it was like to see their Haven demo spacecraft come to life in orbit — from tense moments in the control room to the triumph of first contact. We talk about their next big step, Haven-1, set to become one of the first privately built, human-rated orbital habitat, and how Vast plans to ensure a seamless transition from the International Space Station to a new era of commercial space infrastructure. Haot also discusses safety, competition, and the future business of living and working in low Earth orbit — all part of Vast’s vision to make space permanently accessible.

…

Time Markers
00:00 – Episode introduction
00:33 – Welcome Max
00:45 – A big week
05:03 – Industry superstitions
05:52 – Purpose of the Haven demo mission
08:30 – Haven demo described (with on-orbit video)
10:14 – What is Haven-1
10:33 – Dragon spacecraft and Haven-1
13:17 – Safety and business pressures
20:25 – NASA collaboration and commercial balance
21:11 – Haven-2, Falcon Heavy and Starship
22:48 – Competition and the race for first
27:58 – Business model and customers

=== Chinese space habitats

** The Shenzhou-20 crew capsule suffered a debris impact in early November while docked to China’s Tiangong space station. This led to the Shenzhou-20 astronauts returning on the capsule that had brought the Shenzhou-21 crew to the station. A new capsule was subsequently sent uncrewed to the Tiangong station to use for the eventual return of the the Shenzhou-21 crew. The damaged capsule will be returned uncrewed.

— Shenzhou 21 Completes Record 13-Day Mission, Rescues Crew from Tiangong Space Station | CNSA Watcher

— Shenzhou-21 spacecraft lands on Earth after 204-day space mission | CNSA Watcher

The Shenzhou-21 manned spacecraft successfully returned to Earth on November 14, 2025. Astronauts Chen Dong, Chen Zhongrui, and Wang Jie safely exited the spacecraft in good health after a 204-day space journey. Congratulations to them on setting a new record for the longest individual stay in orbit by Chinese astronauts.

** Shenzhou-21 docking | SciNews

The Shenzhou-21 crew spacecraft autonomously docked to the forward port of the Tianhe Core Module (天和核心舱) on 31 October 2025, at 19:22 UTC (1 November, at 03:22 China Standard Time). Shenzhou-21 (神舟二十一) is the tenth crew of three astronauts on a mission to the China Space Station (中国空间站): Zhang Lu (张陆, commander), Wu Fei (武飞) and Zhang Hong Zhang (张洪章).
Credit: China National Space Administration (CNSA)/China Central Television (CCTV)
Shenzhou-21 docking

** Shenzhou-21 hatch opening | SciNews

The Shenzhou-21 crew entered the Tianhe Core Module (天和核心舱) on 31 October 2025, at 20:58 UTC (1 November, at 04:58 China Standard Time). Shenzhou-21 (神舟二十一) is the tenth crew of three astronauts on a mission to the China Space Station (中国空间站): Zhang Lu (张陆, commander), Wu Fei (武飞) and Zhang Hong Zhang (张洪章).
Credit: China National Space Administration (CNSA)/China Central Television (CCTV) Shenzhou-21 hatch opening,

** Shenzhou-20 and Shenzhou-21 crews are grilling chicken wings in Tiangong space station. | CNSA Watcher – Archives

Wow, the Shenzhou-20 and Shenzhou-21 crews are grilling chicken wings in the space station, according to a video on China Aerospace’s Weibo account.

=== In-space habitation

** Joe Carroll talks spin and artificial gravity. Joe made a special presentation to this program that you will want to see. – The Space Show, Tuesday, Oct. 14, 2025

Read on Substack

=== Lunar habitation

** Another Burst in the Books: Inflatable Habitat Test | Lockheed-Martin on Youtube

We recently conducted our fourth inflatable habitat burst test in Littleton, Colorado—this time featuring a new penetration plate, an opening that could one day serve as a window or hatch for an astronaut.

The test reached 267 psi—over five times its design pressure—demonstrating the strength and reliability of our inflatable habitat technology.

As humanity moves closer to returning to the Moon through NASA’s Artemis program, we are advancing technologies that will enable astronauts to live and work safely in space, paving the way for a sustainable lunar economy and beyond.

Space habitation report – Oct.2.2025

October 2, 2025 TopSpacer

Here is a new selection of videos, articles, and news items about space habitats (govt and commercial), living in space, and space settlement.

=== International Space Station & NASA

** Cygnus XL Cargo Craft Installed on Station’s Unity Module | NASA – Sept.18.2025

Northrop Grumman’s new Cygnus XL spacecraft has been installed to the International Space Station. The mission is known as NASA’s Northrop Grumman Commercial Resupply Services 23, or Northrop Grumman CRS-23.

Filled with more than 11,000 pounds of research and supplies, the Northrop Grumman Cygnus XL spacecraft, carried on a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket, launched at 6:11 p.m. EDT on Sept. 14, from Space Launch Complex 40 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida. This mission will be the first flight of the Cygnus XL, the larger, more cargo-capable version of the company’s solar-powered spacecraft.

Cygnus will remain at the space station until spring when it departs the orbiting laboratory at which point it will dispose of several thousand pounds of debris through its re-entry into Earth’s atmosphere where it will harmlessly burn up.

Artwork showing the array of vehicles docked to the ISS as of Sept.17.2025. Credits: NASA

** NASA Astronauts Discuss Life In Space Fast Company Innovation Festival Attendees– Tuesday, 9/16/2025 | NASA Video

Aboard the International Space Station, NASA astronauts Jonny Kim and Zena Cardman discussed life and work aboard the orbital outpost during an in-flight interview Sept. 16 with attendees of the Fast Company Innovation Festival in New York. Kim and Cardman are in the midst of a long-duration mission aboard the microgravity laboratory to advance scientific knowledge and demonstrate new technologies for future human and robotic exploration flights as part of NASA’s Moon and Mars exploration approach, including lunar missions through NASA’s Artemis program.

** NASA Astronauts Discuss Life In Space With Fox News “America’s Headquarters And Bill Hemmer”- 9/3/25 | NASA Video

Aboard the International Space Station, Expedition 73 flight engineers Zena Cardman, Mike Fincke and Jonny Kim of NASA discussed life and work aboard the orbital outpost during an in-flight interview Sept. 3 with Fox News’ “America’s Headquarters and Bill Hemmer to discuss the White House’s “Make America Healthy Again” agenda. The trio are in the midst of a long-duration mission living and working aboard the microgravity laboratory to advance scientific knowledge and demonstrate new technologies for future human and robotic exploration flights as part of NASA’s Moon and Mars exploration approach, including lunar missions through NASA’s Artemis program.

** Astronaut Discusses Life In Space With Simon Sinek Podcast – Thursday, July 17, 2025 | NASA Video

Aboard the International Space Station, Expedition 73 flight engineer Jonny Kim of NASA discussed life and work aboard the orbital outpost during an in-flight interview July 17 with the Simon Sinek podcast. Kim is in the midst of a long-duration mission living and working aboard the microgravity laboratory to advance scientific knowledge and demonstrate new technologies for future human and robotic exploration flights as part of NASA’s Moon and Mars exploration approach, including lunar missions through NASA’s Artemis program.

** New Cygnus XL cargo ship captured by space station’s robotic arm after thruster issue | VideoFromSpace

Northrop Grumman’s ‘Cygnus XL’ cargo spacecraft was captured by the International Space Station’s robotic on Sept. 18. 2025. The cargo ship suffered a thruster issue the day prior that delayed the docking.

** ISS National Lab Research Overview: Northrop Grumman CRS-23 | ISS National Lab

The International Space Station National Lab is sponsoring more than 15 payloads launching on NASA’s Northrop Grumman Commercial Resupply Services 23 mission via a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket. In this video, learn more about some of those investigations seeking to bring value to humanity through space-based research and drive business models in low Earth orbit.

** Lynn Harper Interview | The Space Show – Sept.21.2025

We started our program by introducing our guest of honor, Lynn Harper, Strategic Integration Advisor to ISS National Lab and InSPA. Space show program participants were also introduced including Marshall Martin, John Hunt, John Jossy, Dr. Ajay Kothari and Dr. Phil Swan. Lynn shared her slides on ISS results from 2022-2024, which were later accessible to all participants through chat. In addition, the link to her slides and to other relevant material to this discussion can be found at the end of this summary. All of us discussed the potential for career growth in space-based microgravity medicine, with Lynn highlighting exceptional results from 2024. Check out the chat window in the video for additional links to relevant items of interest. Once again I announced an upcoming live presentation of AJ’s art show in Fairfax, Virginia, scheduled for Tuesday at 12:30 PM Pacific time.

Ms. Harper discussed the advancements in microgravity and space-assisted medical research, highlighting significant breakthroughs in disease modeling and drug development. She explained how microgravity has accelerated research in areas such as cancer, Alzheimer’s, and other diseases, with examples like Merck reformulating its cancer drug Keytruda to enable injectable administration due to uniform crystal growth in space. The potential economic impact of these advancements is substantial, with projections of $40 billion in annual revenue by 2030. Lynn also emphasized the need for more space research capacity, as demand far exceeds current availability, particularly for personalized drug testing, and she discussed the role of commercial space providers in meeting this demand. As you will hear later in the discussion, it also sparked talk about extending the life of the ISS to do this important research and work.

…

More micro-gravity science:

Exceptional Results Reported by US Innovators on ISS 2022-2024 | Slide presentation by Lynn Harper
Spaceflight as a Model for Studying Age-Related Muscle Decline | Universe Today – Sept.24.2025

=== Commercial space habitats

** Axiom Space

— What Comes Next? | Axiom Space Youtube

Premiering at IAC 2025 in Sydney, Australia, “What Comes Next” showcases Axiom Space’s vision to transcend Earth by building era-defining space infrastructure that drives exploration and fuels a vibrant space economy for the benefit of every human everywhere. Tune in to watch our short film to learn more about how we are building what comes next for low-Earth orbit. #AxiomStation

— Recent developments:

Axiom Space and Resonac Sign MOU to Advance Space-Based Semiconductor Manufacturing | Axiom – Oct.1.2025

Redwire Awarded Contract to Provide Roll-Out Solar Arrays for Axiom Space’s First Space Station Module | Axiom – Sept.25.2025

Redwire Corporation (NYSE: RDW), a global leader in space and defense technology solutions, today announced it has been awarded a contract from Axiom Space, a leader in commercial space infrastructure, to develop and deliver roll-out solar array (ROSA) wings for Axiom Station’s Payload Power Thermal Module (AxPPTM)—the first module for the company’s commercial space station.

“As a market leader for space power solutions, Redwire is proud to be selected as a strategic supplier to deliver ROSAs for Axiom Space’s first space station module,” said Mike Gold, Redwire President of Civil and International Space. “As NASA and industry take the next steps to build out commercial space stations to maintain U.S. leadership in low-Earth orbit (LEO), Redwire continues to be the partner of choice enabling critical capabilities to ensure on-orbit success.”

Axiom Space plans to attach its AxPPTM to the International Space Station as the first module in its assembly sequence followed by Habitat 1 (AxH1), an airlock, Habitat 2 (AxH2), and finally the Research and Manufacturing Facility (AxRMF). After the launch and berthing of AxPPTM to the International Space Station, the module will separate and rendezvous with AxH1 on orbit resulting in Axiom Station’s independent operational capability. This approach enables the two-module station to become a free-flyer as early as 2028 and an independent four-module station by 2030, ensuring a continuous U.S. human presence in LEO after the International Space Station retires. The Axiom Station development plan aligns with U.S. objectives and preserves critical capabilities currently utilized on the International Space Station. AxPPTM is anticipated to launch toward the end of 2027.

Axiom Space Selects Emiliano Ventura as Company’s First-Ever Project Astronaut | Axiom – Sept.30.2025

Today, at the 2025 International Astronautical Congress, Axiom Space, a global leader in commercial human spaceflight and space infrastructure, announced Emiliano Ventura as its first-ever “Project Astronaut.”

Emiliano, a Portuguese physiologist, has developed a unique relationship with Axiom Space, having supported several crewmembers as their physiologist both before and immediately after their missions aboard the International Space Station. He now seeks to apply his expertise in optimizing human performance, honed through years of working with elite athletes, to a new “pilot program” aimed at testing a rigorous six-month astronaut training protocol. His goal is to participate in a future mission and explore, with scientific depth and curiosity, how the human body adapts to microgravity, contributing fresh insights to the current body of research in space physiology.

The training plan, tailored to Emiliano’s performance research, includes reduced gravity (parabolic flight), centrifuge, altitude chamber, expeditionary skills, outdoor leadership, high-performance jet aircraft, underwater helicopter escape, cargo/payloads, biomedical, and spacesuit operations training.

Axiom Space, Spacebilt Announce Orbital Data Center Node Aboard International Space Station | Axiom – Sept.16.2025

Axiom Space and Spacebilt Inc. announced today a multi-organization collaboration to bring optically-interconnected orbital datacenter (ODC) infrastructure to the International Space Station (ISS) in 2027.

The Axiom Orbital Data Center Node on the International Space Station, (AxODC Node ISS), developed under a collaboration agreement with Spacebilt, and supported with an Optical Communication Terminal (OCT) by Skyloom, and hardware by Phison Electronics and Microchip Technology, will establish an optically interconnected, high-performance ODC node aboard the station enabling satellites, other spacecraft in low-Earth orbit (LEO), and astronauts and researchers to store and process data, and run Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (AI/ML) workloads and other cloud computing applications. This evolution builds upon the achievement of launching the Axiom Data Center Unit One (AxDCU-1) to the space station in August, a progressive step in Axiom Space’s initiative to continue the proliferation of ODC nodes, and in alignment with the announcement in April by Axiom Space to launch AxODC Nodes 1 and 2 NET late 2025.

— Thruster tests:

The Propulsion Team begins its testing of the eighth version of Axiom Station’s thrusters, which they call Mark 8 or Mk8. They will install 32 thrusters on the first #AxiomStation module. Fun Fact: the “flame” appears much smaller here on Earth than in the vacuum of space.… pic.twitter.com/VptVklwtTf

— Axiom Space (@Axiom_Space) September 15, 2025

— Ax-4 Mission | Future Female Astronaut Q&A with Peggy Whitson | Axiom Space Youtube

Ax-4 Commander Peggy Whitson led an insightful on-orbit event that brought together an inspiring group of women shaping the future of space exploration. Representing Mexico, Spain, Germany, and the United Kingdom, these women are aspiring or current astronauts representing the growing global presence of women in human spaceflight. Their conversation explored themes of leadership, empowerment, and purpose, highlighting how diverse backgrounds and bold ambitions are redefining what it means to lead beyond Earth.

Partciapants:
Mexico- Katya Echazaretta, Electrical Engineer, Citizen
Astronaut
Spain- Sara Garcia Alonso, Spanish Astronaut Scientist
Germany- Amelie Schoenenwald, Reserve Astronaut, European Space Agency
UK- Meganne Christian, Reserve Astronaut and Commercial Exploration Lead, UK Space Agency; Reserve Astronaut, European Space Agency

** Gravitics

— Materials testing in space:

Last November, we achieved a significant milestone by sending a payload to the International Space Station (ISS) for exposed testing in the low Earth orbit (LEO) environment. Our payload was hosted on a MISSE mission with @AegisAero and has now safely returned from space pic.twitter.com/WnW7uXOpss

— Gravitics (@GraviticsInc) July 29, 2025

** Starlab – Voyager Technologies

— Starlab partners with Belgium-based Space Applications Services: Starlab Adds Space Applications Services as Strategic Partner, Equity Owner in Joint Venture | Starlab – Oct.1.2025

Starlab Space LLC at the 76th International Astronautical Congress today announced that Space Applications Services, a Belgium-based leader in space engineering and payload integration, has joined the company as a joint venture partner and investor. The partnership expands Starlab’s global footprint and extends the capabilities available to Starlab customers.

SpaceApps contributes deep experience in space systems, mission operations and payload integration with capabilities that include avionics, payload development, the end-to-end International Commercial Experiment Cubes (ICECubes) service, as well as mission integration and operations control software. The company also works closely with the European Space Agency and international partners, broadening Starlab’s access to global markets and research communities.

“Adding SpaceApps as both an investor and partner proves we’re rapidly moving from design to reality,” said Marshall Smith, CEO of Starlab. “With additional capital and expertise from international partners, we’re not just building the most advanced commercial space station and offering our customers exceptional capabilities, we’re accelerating scientific discovery and defining the next era of space exploration.”

The partnership will also include collaboration on SpaceApps’s Space Innovation Laboratories currently under development across Europe. These ground-based facilities will provide expanded microgravity research access for universities and industry partners, helping to build the research community and scientific payload pipeline for Starlab’s orbital laboratory.

— Rendezvous demo

Congratulations to our partners at @northropgrumman and @voyagertech_ on the successful completion of a critical rendezvous, proximity operations, and docking (RPOD) demonstration. This achievement represents a significant milestone in the development of fully autonomous docking… pic.twitter.com/P4SeK3txlT

— Starlab (@Starlab_Space) September 29, 2025

— Progress at Starlab: NASA Sees Key Progress on Starlab Commercial Space Station | NASA – July.16 .2025

As NASA continues its transition toward a commercial low Earth orbit marketplace, an agency-supported commercial space station, Starlab, recently completed five development and design milestones. Starlab’s planned design consists of a service module and a habitat that will be launched to orbit on a single flight.

The milestones, part of a NASA Space Act Agreement awarded in 2021, focused on reviews of Starlab’s preliminary design and safety, as well as spacecraft mockup and procurement plans. Each milestone provides NASA insight into the company’s development progress.

…

Starlab recently completed a preliminary design and safety review of its station’s architecture and systems. The company now will begin detailed design and hardware development, culminating in a critical design review later this year. Critical design reviews are an important step in a station’s development, assessing design maturity before proceeding with fabrication and assembly.

** VAST

** September 2025 update:

Haven Demo build and test are complete, and it is now undergoing final integration for launch. Meanwhile, we’re moving toward critical systems testing and continuing to build momentum on Haven-1 flight hardware. Haven-1’s primary structure qualification article has successfully… pic.twitter.com/ATJ6Bryhde

— Vast (@vast) September 26, 2025

** IWC the Official Timekeeper of Vast | VAST Youtube

IWC has entered into a strategic engineering collaboration with Vast, the pioneering space habitation technology company, as “Official Timekeeper.” Vast is currently engineering and building Haven-1, the world’s first commercial space station. This partnership is a natural evolution of IWC’s heritage in aviation and Vast’s vision for the future of space exploration.

With a shared passion for innovation driven by scientific progress, this partnership aims to enhance the durability and performance of mechanical watches on Earth and push the boundaries of watchmaking in the environment of space.

** Haven-1: America’s Next Space Station is Fully Welded | VAST Youtube

Haven-1, the world’s first commercial space station and America’s next space station, is now fully welded and will soon begin testing ahead of integration.

** Power module testing

We successfully tested Haven-1’s payload power module with Polar, the @NASA_Johnson’s Cold Stowage payload hardware, at our headquarters in Long Beach, CA. The power module, built in-house, was tested to NASA standards and demonstrated that we can support scientific samples… pic.twitter.com/u1EBgnkG04

— Vast (@vast) September 9, 2025

=== Chinese space habitats

** Shenzhou-20 Crew’s Thriving Space Garden and New Plant Experiments | CNSA Watcher – Archives

The upgraded space vegetable garden has reached a moment of harvest. Experiments, drills, tests, the Shenzhou-20 crew has had a busy week! Inside the Tianwen experimental module, the lettuce grown with efficient cultivation technology on the Tianzhou-9 is thriving. The Shenzhou-20 crew has now started a new round of cultivation. Guess what kind of plants they are growing this time!

Source: https://m.weibo.cn/status/Q4vr8z6eg

** Shenzhou 13 astronauts film in zero gravity for ‘Blue Planet Outside the Window’ documentary | CNSA Watcher – Archives

Shenzhou 13 astronauts film in zero gravity, testing shots for ‘Blue Planet Outside the Window’! Wang Yaping, Ye Guangfu discuss using space cameras to capture Earth’s beauty outside the window, revealing how the details of Chinese astronauts’ first long-term stay in space are turned into a movie. #SpaceMovie Blue Planet Outside the Window now showing#, taking you to gaze back at the Blue Planet from a unique space perspective, feeling …

Source: https://m.weibo.cn/status/Q3i0Ux68U

=== Lunar & Mars habitation

** Hotel Mars with Dr. Haym Benaroya on both lunar and Martian habitats. | The Space Show/Mars Hotel

John, David and Dr. Haym Benaroya discussed the progress and ongoing challenges of human exploration and habitation on the Moon and Mars. Since 2002, significant advancements have been made in data collection and our understanding of Martian and lunar environments. These improvements were contrasted with earlier speculative or fictional portrayals of space colonization. Professor Benaroya, a mechanical and aerospace engineering expert from Rutgers University, emphasized that while technological progress has been substantial, fundamental obstacles—such as low gravity and abrasive regolith—continue to pose major challenges for sustained human presence. …

** John Batchelor Hotel Mars with Dallas Bienhoff talking about Cislunar Space Development | The Space Show – Sept.10.2025

John Batchelor Hotel Mars with Dallas Bienhoff talking about Cislunar Space Development. by Dr. David M. Livingston

Broadcast 4426, Wednesday, Sept. 3, 2025

Read on Substack

=== Habitat and settlement technologies and strategies

** Integrated In-Space Economy Model ver 1.0 | Phil Metzger on X – Sept.22.2025

After a huge effort for 3 weeks, the integrated In-Space Economy Model ver 1.0 is now working. It shows mind-blowing growth driven mostly by AI until it hits arbitrary caps. The vertical axis is Millions of $. This seems too high but let me break it down over a few posts ….

** How Do We Build Communities in Space? | National Space Society on Youtube

Space colonization isn’t just about engineering habitats—it’s about building communities. In this episode, we explore how people, culture, and shared purpose will shape humanity’s future in space.

** Living Off the Land in Space: The Power of ISRU | National Space Society on Youtube

To thrive beyond Earth, we’ll need more than rockets—we’ll need to live off the land. This episode explores In-Situ Resource Utilization (ISRU), the key to building sustainable colonies in space. From Moon dust to Martian ice, ISRU turns local materials into survival and success.

** Age of Beyond | Aze Alter

If humans & AI unite… we may reach the Age of Beyond….

Written, Directed & Edited By Aze Alter

Co-Produced By Nyukyung

** The Future of Space Infrastructure | SpaceNews

Space Minds speaks with Al Tadros of Redwire, to explore the future of space infrastructure.

…

From the growing role of private investment in orbit to breakthroughs in bioprinting and pharmaceuticals in microgravity, Tadros explains why this is one of the most exciting times in the history of space.

He also discusses the balance between civil, commercial, and national security missions, and how companies like Redwire are shaping the new economy beyond Earth. With decades of experience at the forefront of satellite and space systems, Tadros offers a unique perspective on where the industry is heading—and why the next era of exploration could be even more transformative than the Apollo years.

…

Time Markers
00:00 – Episode introduction
00:27 – Welcome
00:55 – What is space infrastructure?
03:19 – The cost to access space
06:05 – Consolidation effect
09:04 – Evolution of software
11:48 – Bioprinting
14:04 – Space to space economy
16:00 – Balancing civil, commercial and national security
20:01 – New space norms
24:34 – Al’s space journey

** NSS Space Forum – In Space For Earth: Breakthroughs in ISS In-Space Production Applications | National Space Society on Youtube

National Space Society Space Forum, September 18, 2025 – In Space for Earth: Breakthroughs in ISS In-Space Production Applications

[Featuring Lynn D. Harper, Strategic Integration Advisor to the International Space Station (ISS) National Laboratory, NASA]

The International Space Station (ISS) is more than a platform for exploration—it is the first National Laboratory beyond Earth, enabling pioneering research that delivers tangible benefits here at home. In recent years, the ISS National Lab and NASA’s InSpace Production Applications (InSPA) program have reported extraordinary results in microgravity manufacturing and biomedical research—many driven by small U.S. businesses and universities outside traditional aerospace states.

In this Space Forum, Lynn D. Harper—Strategic Integration Advisor to the ISS National Lab and NASA InSPA—will present highlights from a series of groundbreaking investigations. The InSPA portfolio helps U.S. innovators bridge technology’s “Valley of Death” (Technology Readiness Levels 5–9) by testing and validating concepts on the ISS. These efforts are paving the way for products that can ultimately be scaled on future commercial LEO destinations and free-flying platforms to serve markets on Earth.

By the end of 2024, the ISS National Lab and InSPA had demonstrated microgravity-driven advances across every level of matter—from quantum to human. Independent reviewers confirmed that space-based processes delivered disruptively superior products with higher yields and faster timelines than ever achieved on Earth. These breakthroughs show how in-space manufacturing could transform global high-tech industries and secure U.S. leadership in the industries of the future. Lynn shares how space innovation is redefining medicine, materials, and manufacturing—and why these results demand a new vision for low Earth orbit. ….

** SRICA4 #01: Island Zero: A practical gateway to large-scale space habitats – with Jerry Stone | Space Renaissance on Youtube

This is the preliminary webinar #01 of the IV SRI World Congress (SRIC4)
Abstract: In the 1970s, Gerard O’Neill developed plans for large space habitats. One that could house 10,000 people was a level of design known as “Island One”. This would be different from anything launched previously, as it would rotate to produce simulated gravity. Designs for space habitats have always assumed that they would operate under 1g. But do we need 1G? What about 0.9g, 0.8g or less? We’d need a much smaller structure first, to carry out the required medical research. This would also demonstrate the viability of some of the ideas behind space habitation, and later versions would house the personnel that will assemble the main structures. This initial unit is designated as “Island Zero”. Here is an opportunity to hear about this new development straight from the designer. “The most practical 1-g space station concept I have seen”

Bio: Jerry Stone is a Freelance Space Presenter; running Spaceflight UK and giving presentations on a range of topics on astronomy and space exploration all over the UK and abroad. Jerry is a fellow of the British Interplanetary Society and the Royal Astronomical Society, a member of the Board of the Space Renaissance International, and chair of the Space Habitats Committee. He has ran a project at the British Interplanetary Society, to re-examine and update the original space habitat studies. This became the SPACE Project – Study Project Advancing Colony Engineering, which also resulted in a new design for what we called “Island Zero”, as described above.

=== More resources

=== Earth views from ISS

** Tiangong TV: Capturing the Serene Beauty of Space | CNSA Watcher – Archives

The text result is: “Tiangong TV – Exiting the cabin, embracing the vast space! Looking out from the cabin door, the continuous sea of clouds is like a flowing scroll. The robotic arm outside the cabin rotates steadily, capturing the magnificent scene of the intertwining land and ocean, preserving this deep sense of tranquility and gentleness. (Some scenes are fast-forwarded) (Source: China Manned Space Engineering Office) Weibo video about dreaming in the sky”

Source: https://m.weibo.cn/status/Q1j4YcEXT

** Hurricane Erin Seen From International Space Station – 8-19-2025 | NASA Video

The International Space Station flew 260 miles over Hurricane Erin at 11:41 a.m. EDT Tuesday, Aug. 19, 2025. External cameras on the orbiting laboratory captured views of the hurricane as it traveled northwest through the Caribbean with maximum sustained wind speeds of 105 mph. Hurricane Erin is not expected to make landfall and is projected to move between the U.S. East coast and Bermuda before heading out into the Atlantic Ocean.

** Cities by the Bay | NASA – Aug.21.2025

A photo of California’s San Francisco Bay Area surrounded by the cities of San Francisco, Oakland, and San Jose, and their suburbs on Aug. 3, 2025. Taken by NASA astronaut Nichole Ayers from the International Space Station 260 miles above the Golden State. Credits: NASA

** Huge upward shooting lightning sprite spotted from ISS:

Just. Wow. As we went over Mexico and the U.S. this morning, I caught this sprite.

Sprites are TLEs or Transient Luminous Events, that happen above the clouds and are triggered by intense electrical activity in the thunderstorms below. We have a great view above the clouds, so… pic.twitter.com/dCqIrn3vrA

— Nichole “Vapor” Ayers (@Astro_Ayers) July 3, 2025

** Live Video from the International Space Station (Official NASA Stream) | NASA

====

=== Amazon Ads ===

Lego Ideas International Space Station
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Outpost in Orbit:
A Pictorial & Verbal History of the Space Station

In Space Infrastructure, Living in Space, Space Settlement

Space habitat reports – July.1.2025

July 1, 2025 TopSpacer

Here is a new selection of videos, articles, and news items about space habitats (govt and commercial), living in space, and space settlement.

=== International Space Station & NASA

** Ax-4 joins the International Space Station | European Space Agency, ESA

On 26 June 2025 ESA project astronaut Sławosz Uznański-Wiśniewski from Poland and his crewmates arrived to the International Space Station on the Axiom-4 mission (Ax-4).

The Polish project astronaut is the second of a new generation of European astronauts to fly on a commercial human spaceflight opportunity with Axiom Space.

Sponsored by the Polish government and supported by ESA, the Polish Ministry of Economic Development and Technology (MRiT), and the Polish Space Agency (POLSA), the mission will include an ambitious technological and scientific programme with several experiments led by ESA and proposed by the Polish space industry.

Follow Sławosz’s journey to space on the Ignis mission website.

Ignis website: https://www.esa.int/Science_Explorati…

** JAXA Astronaut Discusses Life Aboard Space Station Students – Wednesday, June 25, 2025 | NASA Video

Aboard the International Space Station, Expedition 73 commander Takuya Onishi of JAXA (Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency) discussed living and working in space during an in-flight education interview June 25 with Japanese students. Onishi is in the midst of a long duration science mission living and working aboard the microgravity laboratory to advance scientific knowledge and demonstrate new technologies for future human and robotic exploration missions.

** Astronaut Discusses Life In Space With U.S. Air Force Academy Association – Tuesday, June 17, 2025 | NASA Video

Aboard the International Space Station, Expedition 73 flight engineer Nichole Ayers of NASA discussed life and work aboard the orbital outpost during an in-flight interview June 17 with the U.S. Air Force, Academy Association of Graduates for its podcast. Ayers, a Major in the Air Force is in the midst of a long-duration mission living and working aboard the microgravity laboratory to advance scientific knowledge and demonstrate new technologies for future human and robotic exploration flights as part of NASA’s Moon and Mars exploration approach, including lunar missions through NASA’s Artemis program.

** A visual demo of the length of the ISS:

The length of the ISS as shared by a cosmonaut.

pic.twitter.com/UvOIB6VEme

— A. Pettit (@PettitFrontier) June 15, 2025

** ISS crewmember Don Pettit reenacts a scene from 2001: A Space Odyssey:

Spacewalking! The movie 2001 is one of my favorites, I had to try this as a 2025 tribute. pic.twitter.com/sshaiSB8O6

— Don Pettit (@astro_Pettit) June 14, 2025

=== Commercial space habitats

** Blue Origin

— Blue expanding cooperation with Europe on projects such as the Orbital Reef space station:

Europe is fostering new collaborations for a sustained presence in low Earth orbit. @esa, @Thales_Alenia_S and @blueorigin signed an agreement at #SalonDuBourget today to expand their capabilities in a new era of space exploration.

Partnering on the future #OrbitalReef… pic.twitter.com/yxiRkwFJqX

— Human Spaceflight (@esaspaceflight) June 18, 2025

** Sierra Space

— Sierra is developing techniques for growing vegetables on a space habitat:

Just as microgravity dramatically changes the game in medicine and manufacturing, plants also act very differently in microgravity. The Advanced Plant Habitat (APH) was developed to research growing vegetables in LEO’s unique conditions to provide a reliable food supply. It was… pic.twitter.com/1n1GTMCDRC

— Sierra Space (@SierraSpaceCo) June 2, 2025

** Starlab – Voyager Technologies

— Starlab can host semiconductor research and production:

Did you know that space-based semiconductor research dates back over 50 years to Skylab 3? Since then, more than 228 experiments have been conducted in space, with 70% yielding bigger, better-structured and more uniform crystals than possible on Earth.

Microgravity enables… pic.twitter.com/9l80kp8N21

— Starlab (@Starlab_Space) June 26, 2025

— Starlab capabilities presented to French industry:

Last week, we presented the current status of Starlab, our next-generation commercial space station, to French industry representatives, investors, and key stakeholders. The day was filled with insightful presentations and engaging discussions, exploring potential collaborations… pic.twitter.com/kXbhfF3zJy

— Starlab (@Starlab_Space) June 10, 2025

** VAST

— Introducing Vast: The Next Giant Leap | VAST on Youtube

Now is the time to meet NASA’s call to transition its low-Earth orbit presence from the International Space Station (ISS) to a lower-cost commercial option. Vast is ready to deliver for America and our international partners. We will be delivering the world’s first, most affordable, commercial space station in 2026: Haven-1.

Haven-1 will be Vast’s first step toward a long-term commercial presence in orbit.

Purpose-built for scientific research, in-space manufacturing, and human habitation, Haven-1 will ensure humanity’s presence in low-Earth orbit. Backed by a world-class team and built with speed, safety, and efficiency at its core, this marks the next era in human space exploration—not just reaching orbit, but staying there.

Learn more about how we are making it happen.

— Haven-1: The Mission Ahead | VAST on Youtube

he era of commercial space stations begins with Haven-1, launching next year. Whether you’re a sovereign nation, space agency, scientist, company, or private astronaut—the time is now. Join our mission and help pioneer the next giant leap in space exploration.

** Haven-1 Virtual Reality – Available Now for Download | VAST on Youtube

Experience Haven-1, the world’s first commercial space station, in virtual reality (VR): www.vastspace.com/haven-1-vr

Join Andrew Feustel, former NASA Acting Chief Astronaut and Lead Astronaut at Vast, as he narrates the immersive journey through the next-generation space-station, launching in May 2026.

Haven-1 VR is officially available for download from Meta, the App Store, and Steam.

=== Chinese space habitats

** Doing experiments and organizing logistics, Shenzhou 20 crews daily work at Tiangong Space Station | CNSA Watcher – Archives

#SummerSolstice# has arrived, pursue dreams and go!】Experimental schedule full, material organized diligently… What were the new developments in the ‘Space Home’ last week? Let’s follow the daily work of the Shen 20 crew together! #TiangongTVSeason9# Video of manned spaceflight on Weibo

** Crew of Shenzhou-20 spacecraft prepares for second spacewalk from Tiangong space station | CNSA Watcher – Archives

The crew of Shenzhou-20 spacecraft is ready for their second extravehicular activity. The space station is running smoothly and the astronauts have been working in orbit for over two months. They are in good physical and mental condition, fully prepared for the upcoming EVA. (Source: China Manned Space Engineering Office) Sky and space, pursuing dreams.

** Shenzhou-20 astronauts complete second spacewalk | SciNews

According to the China National Space Administration (CNSA), the second extravehicular activity (EVA) of the Shenzhou-20 (神舟二十) mission was completed on 26 June 2025, at 13:29 UTC (21:29 China Standard Time). During the ~6.5 hours spacewalk, astronauts Chen Dong (陈冬, commander) and Chen Zhong Rui (陈中瑞) completed the installation of a debris protection device, the inspection and maintenance of external equipment, as well as installation of new equipment designed to improve the efficiency of astronauts during EVAs. Astronaut Wang Jie (王杰) assisted them from inside the Tianhe Core Module (天和核心舱) by operating the robotic arm of the China Space Station (中国空间站). Credit: China National Space Administration (CNSA)/China Central Television (CCTV)

=== Lunar habitation

** LUNAR GOLD RUSH – There’s Treasure in Those Poles! | National Space Society on Youtube

The Moon represent a vast supply of resources critical to space development, particularly the lunar poles. How do we balance competing interests of development and science, and competing interests of various nations and groups?

=== Space habitat technologies, designs, etc

** Training for the Moon and Beyond | NASA Johnson

The Joint Extravehicular Activity and Human Surface Mobility Test Team (JETT), led out of Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas, is a specialized group that develops, integrates, and executes tests and analog missions that enable evaluations of lunar surface systems and operations for Artemis missions.
This field test is the fifth in the series and is the highest fidelity Artemis moonwalk mission simulation to date. The test consists of two integrated teams working together as they practice end-to-end lunar operations with a team of astronauts, NASA engineers, and field experts in the Arizona desert conducting the simulated moonwalks, and a team of flight controllers and scientists at NASA Johnson monitoring and guiding their activities. The test evaluates gaps and challenges associated with lunar South Pole operations, including data collection and communications between the flight control team and science team in Houston for rapid decision-making protocols. The week-long test was conducted in the San Francisco Volcanic Field near Flagstaff, Arizona in May of 2024.

** Surviving Space: Artificial Gravity Will Be Critical To Long Term Space Travel & Settlement | National Space Society on Youtube

Long-term survival in space won’t just be about food, air, and shielding—it’s about gravity. In this episode, we’ll explore why artificial gravity may be essential for keeping humans healthy on starships and space stations, and how we might create it using rotation, magnetism, or future technologies.

** Cities of the Future – Megacities, Arcologies, and Floating Utopias | Isaac Arthur on Youtube

In tomorrow’s world, cities may rise into the clouds, dive beneath oceans, or float among the stars—join us as we journey through these radical urban frontiers.

…

Chapters
0:00 Intro
1:16 The Growth of Cities
4:05 Urban Challenges & Opportunities
6:09 Vertical Cities & Arcologies
21:15 Space Scrapers & Space Towers
24:19 Subterranean Cities
26:26 Artificial Island Cities
28:05 Underwater Cities
29:29 Cities in the Sky
30:59 Space Habitats
33:56 Cities on Other Worlds

** Worldhouses & Paraterraforming: Building Planets, One Dome at a Time | Isaac Arthur on Youtube

Why wait centuries to terraform Mars when you could build a habitable world overnight? In this episode, we explore the concept of Worldhouses—planet-spanning domes that let us colonize hostile worlds by enclosing them beneath engineered skies, one dome at a time.

…

Chapters:
0:00 Intro
2:47 The Worldhouse Concept
7:04 How Would a Worldhouse Be Built?
15:19 The Quilt Approach: Expanding a Worldhouse Over Time
20:22 Antimatter Propulsion
21:42 Partial Enclosures: Mega-Domes Over Key Regions
23:56 Enclosing Asteroids: The Micro-Worldhouse
28:07 Earth as a Worldhouse: Could We Enclose Our Own Planet?
30:43 The Future of Worldhouses

** The Von Braun Wheel: A Space Station Dream and the Legacy It Inspired | National Space Society on Youtube

Long before the International Space Station, Wernher von Braun imagined something bolder: a massive, rotating space habitat that used motion to simulate gravity—a wheel in the sky. In this episode, we explore the origins and design of the Von Braun Wheel, its cultural legacy, and how this mid-20th-century vision still shapes the dreams of space settlement today.

We’ll trace its journey from Cold War concept to science fiction icon, revisit its influence on shows like 2001: A Space Odyssey, and examine the very real possibility of building such a station with today’s technology. We’ll also reflect on von Braun’s enduring impact—culminating in the National Space Society’s von Braun Award, presented this year to Jared Isaacman and the Polaris Dawn team.

From dreams to docking hubs, from Disney collaborations to modern-day launch systems, the Von Braun Wheel remains a symbol of humanity’s path to the stars. Join us as we honor its legacy—and explore how we might finally bring it to life.

️ Learn more about the International Space Development Conference: https://isdc.nss.org
Become a part of the future: https://space.nss.org

** How to Build in Space — for Life on Earth | Ariel Ekblaw | TED

Is space the “final frontier” — or the perfect place to revolutionize life on Earth? Space architect Ariel Ekblaw reveals how self-assembling structures could build orbiting real estate in space dedicated to solving humanity’s greatest dilemmas on Earth, leading to scientific and medical breakthroughs only possible in zero gravity. (Recorded at TED2025 on April 11, 2025)

** The Orbital Commons: Building the Highways and Habitats Around Earth | National Space Society on Youtube

Before humanity can spread across the stars, we must first build the foundation—just above our heads. In this episode, we explore the concept of the orbital commons: the shared space around Earth that must become our first true space ecosystem. From fuel depots and tugcraft to habitats, shipyards, and traffic control, the infrastructure of near-Earth space is the key to unlocking a sustainable spacefaring future.

We’ll examine what it takes to turn Earth orbit from a fragile staging area into a thriving zone of commerce, habitation, and exploration. And we’ll look at the legal, logistical, and technological tools we’ll need to protect and expand this new frontier.

The road to Mars and beyond begins here—with the highways, hubs, and habitats of cislunar space.

Become a part of the future: https://space.nss.org

=== Other space habitat and settlement news and articles:

Calendar:
- July 11: You’re Gonna Need Juice For That: Establishing Infrastructure in Space, Friday, July 11 from 1:00-2:30 pm via Zoom. Sponsored by Beyond Earth Institute
  - Tyler Bender (Moderator) – Policy Analyst, Beyond Earth Institute
  - Joe Pawelski – Co-founder & CTO, Cislunar Industries
  - Dallas Bienhoff – Space Systems Architect, OffWorld
  - Ross Centers, Co-founder & CEO, Ethos
- September 29 – October 3 — International Astronautical Conference (IAC) By the International Astronautical Federation (IAF) in Sydney, Australia [Learn more ➔]
- October 9-11 — International Mars Society Convention in Los Angeles [Learn more ➔]
- October 24-25 — New Worlds Conference in Houston, TX [Learn more ➔]
- November 3-4 — Space Settlement Summit by the NSS at the University of Central Florida by the National Space Society [Save the date]
- November 5-6 — Space Economy Summit by The Economist at the University of Central Florida [Learn more ➔]
ISS:
General settlement topics:
- All eyes on the moon: sharing information for lunar peace, safety and sustainability | SpaceNews – June.27.2025
Resources:

=== Earth views from ISS

** Super high-speed camera on ISS captures high-altitude electrical storms:

The Thor-Davis investigation tests a special camera that photographs high-altitude thunderstorms through space station’s windows. Capturing imagery up to 100,000 frames per second, Thor-Davis could be a useful tool for observing severe electrical storms from space.… pic.twitter.com/bzKWhS7Acb

— International Space Station (@Space_Station) June 27, 2025

** Transitions from earth to aurora to space:

Color of Earth meets the blackness of deep space. Stars above green and red auroras, seen as fixed points due to my homemade orbital sidereal drive. pic.twitter.com/6j4sADNPLb

— Don Pettit (@astro_Pettit) June 3, 2025

** Live Video from the International Space Station (Official NASA Stream) | NASA

====

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Lego Ideas International Space Station
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Outpost in Orbit:
A Pictorial & Verbal History of the Space Station

In Space Infrastructure, Living in Space, Space Settlement

Space habitat reports – May.30.2025

May 30, 2025 TopSpacer

Here is a new selection of videos, articles, and news items about space habitats (govt and commercial), living in space, and space settlement.

=== International Space Station & NASA

** Space to Ground: Return Items: May 30, 2025 | NASA

**Jonny Kim Discusses Life In Space With Meltwater Summit Attendees – Wednesday, May 7, 2025 | NASA Video

Aboard the International Space Station, Expedition 73 flight engineer Jonny Kim of NASA discussed life and work aboard the orbital outpost during an in-flight interview with attendees at the Meltwater Summit in New York City. Kim, is in the midst of a long-duration mission living and working aboard the microgravity laboratory to advance scientific knowledge and demonstrate new technologies for future human and robotic exploration flights as part of NASA’s Moon and Mars exploration approach, including lunar missions through NASA’s Artemis program.

** Recent parking at the ISS:

The science and cargo packed @SpaceX Dragon ended its stay undocking from the station’s Harmony module at 12:05pm ET today for a return to Earth early Sunday. https://t.co/4xdwFBEeD2

— International Space Station (@Space_Station) May 23, 2025

** Growing private gardens on the ISS:

Bootleg agrarian society in the space station
Astronaut Kate Rubins surprised us with her stories of secretive plant growth in the ISS. She started with sanctioned experiments to grow radishes in space. Instead of disposing of the plants, they hid them where the LED lighting… pic.twitter.com/KU1SxgCjN1

— Steve Jurvetson (@FutureJurvetson) May 28, 2025

=== Commercial space habitats

** Axiom Space

— Designing the habitation module:

Axiom Station’s habitation module will provide living quarters, work spaces, and life support systems for astronauts. Building a structure that can withstand the harsh conditions of space while maintaining a pressurized interior is quite a challenge. The Node Cylinder, 1 of 4… pic.twitter.com/U6Y8gwNrdc

— Koichi Wakata 若田光一 (@Astro_Wakata) May 23, 2025

Living in space poses unique challenges that can affect mood and circadian rhythms. Traditional Space Station lighting has LED lighting focused on basic circadian regulation, but Axiom Station is taking it a step further with mood-responsive lighting that can monitor an astronaut… pic.twitter.com/bom0fE4Mh4

— Koichi Wakata 若田光一 (@Astro_Wakata) May 8, 2025

** Sierra Space

— NASA Fires Hypervelocity Projectile at Inflatable Space Station | Sierra Space Youtube

Sierra Space recently conducted successful hypervelocity impact trials at NASA’s White Sands Test Facility in Las Cruces, New Mexico, to optimize the structural integrity of Sierra Space’s Large Integrated Flexible Environment (LIFE®) habitat. The goal of this NASA-supported testing was to refine a shield for the company’s expandable, flexible space station structure to make it capable of withstanding impacts from hazards on orbit.

Sierra Space, a leading commercial space company and defense tech prime that is building a platform in space to benefit and protect life on Earth, announced today that it recently conducted successful hypervelocity impact trials at NASA’s White Sands Test Facility in Las Cruces, New Mexico, to optimize the structural integrity of Sierra Space’s Large Integrated Flexible Environment (LIFE®) habitat. The goal of this NASA-supported testing was to refine a shield for the company’s expandable, flexible space station structure to make it capable of withstanding impacts from hazards on orbit.

The LIFE habitat’s shield, constructed from innovative, high-strength, flexible “softgoods” – a chemically-woven fabric material called Vectran® – provides a lightweight yet durable alternative to traditional rigid structures. The Sierra Space and NASA test teams used a two-stage light gas gun to simulate micrometeoroid and orbital debris (MMOD) impacts to LIFE’s outer shield. The testing aimed to select materials and configurations that enhance the habitat’s shielding performance while achieving significant mass savings – critical for space missions. You can view and download video of the test campaign here and photos here.

“Our innovative space station technology drives scientific discovery and fuels a low-Earth orbit economy,” said Shawn Buckley, Vice President, Space Destinations Systems at Sierra Space. “This collaboration with NASA advances our efforts to development a shield that protects against micrometeoroids and space debris, bringing us closer to launching the LIFE habitat into orbit and readying our technology for repeat and long-duration space missions.”

The impact testing, conducted under an unfunded Space Act Agreement called Collaborations for Commercial Space Capabilities (CCSC-2), used NASA’s .50 caliber two-stage light gas gun to replicate MMOD traveling at speeds around seven kilometers per second. Housed in the Remote Hypervelocity Test Laboratory, the gun uses gunpowder (the first stage) and highly compressed hydrogen (the second stage) to accelerate projectiles at high velocities to simulate orbital debris impacts on spacecraft and satellite materials and components. Testing is conducted in a near vacuum chamber to simulate space conditions.

— Growing veggies in space:

For over 20 years, we have been at the forefront of researching how to grow plants in space.

Our Astro Garden system is a large-scale vegetable production system that uses hydroponics to grow plants without soil and offers a sustainable means of producing fresh food fresh food… pic.twitter.com/cZ8kNVrwjW

— Sierra Space (@SierraSpaceCo) April 22, 2025

— Sierra wins NASA funding to study inflatable modules for lunar shelters: Sierra Space Wins $3.6M NASA Lunar Logistics Contract | Payload – May.29.2025

Sierra Space secured a one-year, $3.6M NASA contract to study how its inflatable space station technology could provide logistical infrastructure for future lunar bases.

The contract—part of NASA’s NextSTEP-2 Appendix R set of studies—tasks Sierra Space with examining how it would upgrade its LEO space station technology to withstand the lunar environment, given the Moon’s sharp regolith and extra gravity.

** Starlab – Voyager Technologies

— Vision research in microgravity: Starlab Space and Balance Ophthalmics Partner to Address Astronaut Vision Loss | Starlab – May.12.2025

Starlab Space LLC and Balance Ophthalmics have partnered to find a solution for Spaceflight-Associated Neuro-Ocular Syndrome, a condition that describes functional changes to the eyes of astronauts. One in three astronauts on long-duration International Space Station missions experiences symptoms of SANS, including hyperopic shifts, globe flattening, choroidal/retinal folds and cotton wool spots. If not addressed, prolonged microgravity exposure, including during missions to the Moon or Mars, could cause complete and irreversible vision loss for astronauts.

This partnership demonstrates Starlab’s commitment to scientific research and to safe and repeatable space flight experiences. The company aims to enhance astronauts’ way of life today on the International Space Station, while also setting a baseline for further improvement and future use on Starlab. Dual-use technologies are key to this effort, jumpstarting discoveries that can transform humanity both on Earth and in space.

Balance Ophthalmics has developed the first and only non-invasive, non-pharmaceutical way to treat eye pressure. The FYSX™ Ocular Pressure Adjusting Pump features a quiet, compact, portable pump combined with innovative pressure sensing goggles. The device has been granted FDA DeNovo Classification and shown to lower pressure in every patient at every visit while worn.

“While our issues are reversed in space – we need to increase pressure on the eyes rather than lower it – the technology behind Balance Ophthalmics can be a game changer for future space missions and improve our customer experience on Starlab. I’m looking forward to partnering with Balance, addressing this critical concern and exploring the many other benefits of the technology, so that our astronauts can clearly and completely focus on their best work,” said Tim Kopra, Starlab CEO.

— Starlab in Europe:

Our European team recently showcased Starlab at the inaugural SpaceTechNRW Conference in Cologne, bringing together key leaders in the space sector and highlighting the region’s strong position in today’s space ecosystem and its vision for future growth.

Starlab’s Michael Boss… pic.twitter.com/X78Nf5GRxE

— Starlab (@Starlab_Space) May 14, 2025

** VAST

—- Haven-1 habitat construction ahead of schedule: Vast to complete Haven-1 primary structure in July 2025, ahead of target May 2026 launch date | SpaceflightNow – May.7.2025

— Testing of primary structure:

The Haven-1 primary structure qualification article continues critical testing at our Mojave, CA, test site. Last year, in just six months, we built the qualification article, enabling early testing and validation of our design to ensure we are building a safe and low-cost… pic.twitter.com/VgOJgGTQtn

— Vast (@vast) May 9, 2025

—- Vast to launch Haven-1, the world’s first commercial space station, in May 2026 | Spaceflight Now on YouTube

The International Space Station, a beacon of research and technological advancements in a low Earth orbit, microgravity environment, is nearing the end of its operational life. Vast, a commercial space station company based in Long Beach, California, is working on its bid to replace the ISS as part of NASA’s Commercial LEO Development (CLD) program.

As part of its proof of concept, Vast plans to launch the single-module, Haven-1 space station into LEO no earlier than May 2026. It will be followed by the first crewed mission to this new orbiting laboratory no earlier than late June 2026.

Spaceflight Now Reporter Will Robinson-Smith toured Vast’s Haven-1 Experience at the 40th Space Symposium with Vast CEO Max Haot and spoke with Lead Astronaut Andrew Feustel to learn about the design, manufacturing and vision for Vast’s first foray into creating a commercial space station. Haven-1 is designed to pave the way for the multi-module Haven-2, which is Vast’s entrant to become the successor to the ISS.

Chapters:
00:00 – Introduction
00:34 – Our tour begins…
00:58 – Haven-1 overview
02:46 – Lead Astronaut Drew Feustel
03:53 – Science partners
06:51 – Vast and CLD development
08:36 – Glimpse of Haven-2
08:56 – Haven-1 hatch and SpaceX partnership
12:40 – Crew quarters and Vast Haven-1 sleep system
14:49 – Hardware progress on Haven-1
19:14 – Working towards Haven-2

—- Inside Vast Headquarters: Where Next Generation Space Stations Are Built | VAST Youtube

— More touring of Vast’s facilities:

We recently welcomed journalist Pablo Fuente to our facilities and Mojave test site for an in-depth look at our progress toward building next-generation space stations, our pursuit of NASA’s CLD bid, and the talented team making it happen. Thanks to @PabloFuente and… https://t.co/FxytfQU9By

— Vast (@vast) May 6, 2025

— Testing the domed window:

Haven-1’s domed window will enable the crew to observe and photograph the Earth and space. This test fixture is critical to confirming the window’s strength and ensuring crew safety in space. Each test kick simulates hundreds of pounds of force, mimicking accidental bumps from… pic.twitter.com/DpLV17EwhT

— Vast (@vast) April 25, 2025

To evaluate the performance of our Haven-1 domed window, the team conducted nighttime star photography tests. This setup allowed us to assess how light sources, such as stars and the Moon, interact with the window’s multiple panes. We evaluated camera views through the window and… pic.twitter.com/ogBEWMOKXj

— Vast (@vast) May 20, 2025

— NASA assists Vast with development of air filtration systems for station modules: NASA Helps with Progress on Vast’s Haven-1 Commercial Space Station | NASA – May.29.2025

NASA-supported commercial space station, Vast’s Haven-1, recently completed a test of a critical air filter system for keeping future astronauts healthy in orbit. Testing confirmed the system can maintain a safe and healthy atmosphere for all planned Haven-1 mission phases.

Testing of the trace contaminant control system was completed at NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville, Alabama, as part of a reimbursable Space Act Agreement. Vast also holds an unfunded Space Act Agreement with NASA as part of the second Collaborations for Commercial Space Capabilities initiative.

The subsystem of the environmental control and life support system is comprised of various filters designed to scrub hazardous chemicals produced by both humans and materials on the commercial station. During the test, a representative chemical environment was injected into a sealed environmental chamber, and the filtration system was turned on to verify the trace contaminant control system could maintain a healthy atmosphere.

“Testing of environmental control systems and subsystems is critical to ensure the health and safety of future commercial space station crews,” said Angela Hart, program manager for NASA’s Commercial Low Earth Orbit Development Program at the agency’s Johnson Space Center in Houston. “Through NASA’s agreements with Vast and our other industry partners, the agency is contributing technical expertise, technologies, services, and facilities to support companies in the development of commercial stations while providing NASA important insight into the development and readiness to support future agency needs and services in low Earth orbit.”

Experts used the same environmental chamber at Marshall to test the International Space Station environmental control and life support system.

The knowledge and data gained during the recent testing will help validate Vast’s Haven-1 and support future Haven-2 development.

=== Chinese space habitats

** Shenzhou-20 astronauts complete successful 8-hour spacewalk | CNSA Watcher – Archives

08:50 to 16:49, extravehicular activities lasted a total of 7 hours and 59 minutes
【Shenzhou-20 astronauts successfully completed their first extravehicular activity】At 16:49 today, after about 8 hours of extravehicular activities, Shenzhou-20 astronauts Chen Dong, Chen Zhongrui, and Wang Jie closely cooperated with ground research personnel and successfully completed their first extravehicular task. At 08:50, astronaut Chen Dong opened the hatch of the core module and was the first to exit. After Chen Dong boarded the robotic arm, with the coordination of astronaut Chen Zhongrui … full text

Source: https://m.weibo.cn/status/Pt70Zzzxd

** Chinese astronauts conduct spacewalk to add space debris protection on Tiangong space station | VideoFromSpace

Shenzhou-20 astronauts Chen Dong and Chen Zhongrui conducted a spacewalk outside the Tiangong space station on May 22, 2025. The “complete multiple tasks, including the installation of space debris protection devices,” according to China Central Television.

** Shenzhou-20 Crew Thriving in Space Station Orbit | CNSA Watcher – Archives

The Shenzhou-20 crew has been busy in orbit for half a month since arriving at the Chinese space station on April 25. Astronauts Chen Dong, Chen Zhongrui, and Wang Jie have quickly adapted to the microgravity environment and smoothly started their “business trip to space.” Let’s take a look!

=== Mars habitation

** Elon Musk gives his latest update on the SpaceX plan for a Mars settlement:

The Road to Making Life Multiplanetary: an update from @elonmusk on SpaceX’s plan to reach Mars pic.twitter.com/d2cnsVKK80

— SpaceX (@SpaceX) May 29, 2025

— A discussion of the SpaceX plan:

Hosting my space about the latest Mars plan from SpaceX this evening.

* Can they do it?
* When will they be able to send humans?
* What’s the plan once they get there?
* How will everybody else respond to it?https://t.co/jXfAKkuE77

— Peter Hague (@peterrhague) May 30, 2025

— See also:

The Future of the Starship Program, Block 3 and Mars | NASASpaceFlight.com – May.30.2025
SpaceX Starship Mars mission update 2025 | human Mars – May.30.2025 – A collection of illustrations from the talk

=== Other space habitat and settlement news and articles:

Calendar:
- Simulating the Expansion of Human Civilization via Large-Scale Space Migration, Beyond Earth Institute, Tue Jun 3, 2025 12:00 PM – 1:30 PM ED, Zoom Webinar
  - Panelists: Frank White (Sentient Media, LLC; Human Space Program; Professor at Kepler Space Univ.), David W. Peterson, Chairman, Ventana Systems, Inc., Dr. Annahita Nezami, Research Fellow, Birkbeck, University of London Chartered Psychologist
- International Space Development Conference 2025 | ISDC , Orlando, Florida, June 19 – 22, 2025. National Space Society’s annual conference.
  - Space Settlement session
  - Living in Space session
- New Worlds Conference & Space Cowboy Ball 2025, Oct.24-25, Space Center Houston, Houston, Texas
ISS:
China:
- China Space Station Crew: Spacewalk Tasks Completed | Leonard David – May.24.2025
- China Space Station Experiments – Back on Earth, Analysis Begins | Leonard David – May.3.2025
Lunar habitation:
Mars habitation:
Settlement technologies:
- Sierra Space and payload integrator Tec-Masters to facilitate test of Honda’s Circulative Renewable Energy System on the ISS | Space Settlement Progress – May.10.2025
- Lunar Helium-3 mining:
General settlement topics:
- Space mining: corporate autocracy or global solidarity? | The Space Review – May.19.2025
- What’s it like to be 70 years old in space? “All those little aches and pains heal up.” | Ars Technica – May.2.2025
Space station history:
- “Future Space Station Concept –In the summer of… | Exploring Space – May.29.2025
Resources:

=== Earth views from ISS

** ISS astronaut Nichole “Vapor” Ayers posts views of Earth:

The Aurora showed up this last weekend when I wasn’t expecting it! I was trying to capture the massive storms that went through both North and South America and got a nice surprise. The Aurora appeared right at sunset over the Northern US and Canada.

I‘m also fascinated by just… pic.twitter.com/qwwepQGDiO

— Nichole “Vapor” Ayers (@Astro_Ayers) May 23, 2025

A nighttime pass over the Eastern and Southern United States. I was astounded at the scale of recent thunderstorms … some of these flashes are as large as cities! pic.twitter.com/fsdJjMo20Q

— COL Anne McClain (@AstroAnnimal) May 21, 2025

I’m still in awe of our view of the world and beyond. Today was the Flower Moon and it did NOT disappoint!

These were shot from a few different lenses for perspective. I love how you can see the texture in the clouds and on the Moon itself. pic.twitter.com/AImsX4kQ1O

— Nichole “Vapor” Ayers (@Astro_Ayers) May 13, 2025

** Live Video from the International Space Station (Official NASA Stream) | NASA

====

=== Amazon Ads ===

Lego Ideas International Space Station
Toy Blocks, Present, Space, Boys, Girls, Ages 16 and Up

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Outpost in Orbit:
A Pictorial & Verbal History of the Space Station

In Space Infrastructure, Living in Space, Space Settlement

Space habitat reports – Apr.24.2025

April 24, 2025 TopSpacer

Here is a new selection of videos, articles, and news items about space habitats (govt and commercial), living in space, and space settlement.

=== International Space Station & NASA

** Space to Ground: One in a Million: April 18,2025 | NASA Johnson

NASA’s Space to Ground is your weekly update on what’s happening aboard the International Space Station.

** NASA Astronaut Don Pettit Soyuz MS-26 Undocking [Apr.19.2025] | NASA

Watch as NASA astronaut Don Pettit, along with Roscosmos cosmonauts Alexey Ovchinin and Ivan Vagner, undock from the International Space Station and begin their voyage back to Earth.

The Soyuz MS-26 spacecraft is set to undock from the space station at 5:57 p.m. EDT (2157 UTC), heading for a parachute-assisted landing at 9:20 p.m. EDT (0120 UTC or 6:20 a.m. Kazakhstan time, Sunday, April 20) on the steppes of Kazakhstan, southeast of the town of Dzhezkazgan. Landing will occur on Pettit’s 70th birthday.

** Watch Soyuz approach and dock to the ISS [Apr.8.2025]:

Footage of the Soyuz spacecraft docking with the International Space Station pic.twitter.com/gCbW5uzroj

— Black Hole (@konstructivizm) April 11, 2025

** NASA Astronaut Don Pettit Turns the Camera on Science | NASA

NASA astronaut Don Pettit is scheduled to return home in mid-April 2025 after a seven-month mission aboard the International Space Station as part of Expedition 72. Throughout his stay, Pettit contributed to research that benefits humanity and future space missions, and delighted photography enthusiasts around the world with his unique point of view.

Pettit also shared what he calls his “science of opportunity” to demonstrate how experimenting with our surroundings can help gain a better understanding of how things work. This understanding is enhanced when art, science, and microgravity come together.

More: https://go.nasa.gov/3RmKPB9

** Between a Rocket & A Hard Space: Episode 2 with NASA Astronaut Jonny Kim | ISS National Lab

The ISS National Lab’s official podcast, Between a Rocket and a Hard Space, is back with an out-of-this-world second episode. Hear from NASA astronaut Jonny Kim in his first one-on-one downlink conversation since arriving onboard the ISS last week.

** How Do Astronauts Practice Self-Care in Space? | NASA Johnson

Everyone needs a little self-care. But what’s that look like for astronauts orbiting 250 miles above Earth? See how crew members may turn to music, movies, and more to unwind and recharge.

Learn more about the ongoing research exploring human health in space at NASA’s Human Research Program: www.nasa.gov/hrp

** A Cislunar Fizz, Please: Social Drinking in Space | National Space Society on Youtube

As more humans venture into orbit and beyond, even happy hour will need a space suit. In this episode, we explore the science, risks, and social dynamics of drinking alcohol in zero gravity—from altered metabolism to waste management and evolving spaceflight etiquette. What does responsible consumption look like off-Earth, and how might it shape the culture of future space habitats?

ISDC 2025: https://isdc.nss.org
Check out Ad Astra Magazine: https://nss.org/ad-astra-the-magazine…

** Japanese astronaut takes command of space station in on-orbit ceremony | VideoFromSpace

JAXA (Japan Aerospace Agency) astronaut Takuya Onishi was handed the key to the International Space Station by Roscosmos cosmonaut Alexey Ovchinin in a change of command ceremony on April 18, 2025.

** SpaceX CRS-32 Dragon cargo spacecraft approaches ISS in time-lapse | VideoFromSpace

The SpaceX CRS-32 Dragon cargo capsule docked with the International Space Station (ISS) on April 22, 2025. See it approach the orbital outpost in this time-lapse.

** The ‘riskiest period’ of the ISS’ existence | SpaceNews

=== Commercial space habitats

** Axiom Space

— Axiom Mission 4 to the ISS is set for May:

Watch to learn more about crew procedures for their mission to the International Space Station. #Ax4 @AstroPeggy @astro_slawosz @isro @esa @POLSA_GOV_PL #HUNOR pic.twitter.com/6W7l5pVkMY

— Axiom Space (@Axiom_Space) April 18, 2025

** Blue Origin

— Orbital Reef mockups used to test station components and operations: NASA Sees Progress on Blue Origin’s Orbital Reef Design Development | NASA – Apr.16.2025

A NASA-supported commercial space station, Blue Origin’s Orbital Reef, recently completed a human-in-the-loop testing milestone as the agency works toward developing commercial space stations in low Earth orbit.

The human-in-the-loop test scenarios utilized individual participants or small groups to perform day-in-the-life walkthroughs in life-sized mockups of major station components. Participants provided feedback while simulating microgravity operations, including cargo transfer, trash transfer, stowage, and worksite assessments.

— On Earth Day 2025, Blue highlights the benefits of space for the home planet:

Space exploration confirms it: Earth is the best planet.

Our planet’s resources are finite, but space offers endless possibilities. We can guarantee a sustainable future by sourcing what we need from space and moving polluting industries off Earth. Join the mission to protect… pic.twitter.com/tf196S8ZyB

— Blue Origin (@blueorigin) April 22, 2025

** Sierra Space

— Sierra offers expertise in growing plants in space:

For over 20 years, we have been at the forefront of researching how to grow plants in space.

Our Astro Garden system is a large-scale vegetable production system that uses hydroponics to grow plants without soil and offers a sustainable means of producing fresh food fresh food… pic.twitter.com/cZ8kNVrwjW

— Sierra Space (@SierraSpaceCo) April 22, 2025

** VAST

— Space Symposium attendees could tour the full-scale Haven-1 mockup:

Last week, members of the Vast team attended the 40th Annual Space Symposium in Colorado Springs, CO. We unveiled the Haven-1 Experience, announced new partners @JAMSS_official, @InterstellarLA, and @exobiosphere, and signed an agreement with the @ISS_CASIS.

Read more:… pic.twitter.com/FolRDW5P0y

— Vast (@vast) April 15, 2025

Several photos included in this post: Vast at the 40th Annual Space Symposium | VAST – Apr.15.2025.

— Vast signing up payloads for Haven-1 mission: Vast Announces Three Additional Payload Partners for the Haven-1 Lab: JAMSS, Interstellar Lab, and Exobiosphere | VAST – Apr.8.2025

Vast, the pioneering space habitation technology company, announced today Japan Manned Space Systems Corporation (JAMSS), Interstellar Lab, and Exobiosphere as the latest payload partners for its Haven-1 Lab, the world’s first commercial crewed microgravity research and manufacturing facility in space—unlocking a new era of orbital innovation through a fully commercial platform. Launching inside Haven-1, the world’s first commercial space station, the lab is on track for deployment in May 2026 and is already nearing full capacity.

The three companies—leaders in space systems, biotechnology, and pharmaceutical research—join existing Haven-1 Lab partners Redwire and Yuri, reinforcing Vast’s mission to enable international collaboration in low-Earth orbit (LEO) and accelerate scientific breakthroughs that benefit humanity and support long-term space habitation. The new partners will leverage the microgravity environment of the Haven-1 Lab by installing payloads focused in the areas of advanced materials development, biotechnology, and pharmaceutical development.

— Vast and NASA’s ISS National Lab sign cooperation agreement: Vast Signs Agreement to Leverage International Space Station (ISS) National Lab | VAST – Apr.10.2025

Vast, a pioneering company in space habitation technology, has signed a strategic agreement with the Center for the Advancement of Science in Space® (CASIS) to support scientific research through the International Space Station (ISS) National Laboratory. This milestone partnership reinforces Vast’s commitment to advancing space-based research and strengthens its position as a key player in NASA’s private astronaut missions (PAM) to the ISS.

CASIS, manager of the ISS National Lab, awarded the partnership based on Vast’s innovative spacecraft designs and its forward-thinking technical and commercial approach—elements that are poised to enhance in-orbit service technologies, expand access to the ISS for new user groups, and benefit life for humanity through space-based research.

Under the agreement, CASIS will collaborate on initiatives proposed by Vast designed to accelerate advancements in scientific discovery, commercial applications, and space station technology. The agreement also supports Vast’s plans to conduct research proposed by astronauts and agencies collaborating on future NASA private astronaut missions.

** Haven-1’s Journey Continues – March 2025 Update | VAST Youtube

We’re making steady progress toward the launch of Haven-1, documenting key hardware milestones and development updates along the way. Explore our most recent accomplishments as we track toward our targeted launch in May 2026 of the world’s first commercial space station.

=== Chinese space habitats

** Shenzhou-19 crew’s space mission countdown: Astronauts conduct experiments and prepare for return | CNSA Watcher – Archives

【#TiangongTV# | “Space business trip” enters countdown!】Shenzhou-19 crew’s “space business trip” enters countdown! Last week, three astronauts conducted various space science experiments while progressing with preparations for the return as planned. Let’s see what projects are on their “to-do list”! (Source: China Manned Space Engineering Office) Space dream’s Weibo video

Source: https://m.weibo.cn/status/Po7CMBUIQ

** Shenzhou 19 Crew on Tiangong Space Station for Over 150 Days, Returning Soon | CNSA Watcher – Archives

The Shenzhou 19 crew has been on the Chinese space station for over 150 days. Astronauts Cai Xuzhe, Song Lingdong, Wang Haoze are in good physical and mental condition, making progress in space science experiments and test tasks. According to the plan, they will return to Earth around May 1st.

** New Lunar Soil Brick Machine for Moon Building | CNSA Watcher Archives

This should be one of the devices that Chang’e 8 will take to the lunar surface. How to make bricks on the moon? How to build houses? Reporters recently visited the Deep Space Exploration Laboratory in Hefei, Anhui Province, and visited the principle prototype of the “Lunar Soil Brick Machine” independently developed by Chinese researchers – the lunar soil in-situ 3D printing system. The “Lunar Soil Brick Machine” is mainly composed of an optical focusing module and a forming manufacturing module. Its working principle is through… full text.

Source: https://m.weibo.cn/status/PoAApiRHt

=== Lunar habitation

** Space Symposium 2025 | Inside Lockheed Martin’s Expandable Moon Habitat with Uy Doung | SpaceWatch.Global TV

On the final day of the 40th Space Symposium, Yvette Gonzalez had the pleasure of stepping inside Lockheed Martin’s expandable lunar habitat module and speaking with Uy Doung, Chief Engineer for Commercial Civil Space at Lockheed Martin.

What’s inside this next-gen module?
Rather than traditional metallic structures, this design features multi-layered soft goods, offering:
• 4x the safety factor of metallic modules (compared to the 2x standard)
• Up to 50% mass savings
• Ability to compress to 1/5 of its expanded volume to fit within standard launch fairings

Uy’s team is building on NASA’s early TransHab concepts and evolving them into a decoupled architecture, delivering more predictable performance and greater strength in extreme conditions.

Why it matters:
As we move toward permanent lunar infrastructure, lightweight, compact, and robust structures like this one will be game-changers for the mass, cost, and versatility of missions.

“This technology could truly transform the lunar landscape,” We said. After seeing it in person, I agree — it’s practical, visionary, and real.

This was Yvette’s first Space Symposium and she is leaving inspired by the innovation, energy, and dedication to building the future of off-world living.

=== Space settlement

** John Bachelor Show – Hotel Mars: Laura Montgomery, Atty. | The Space Show

John Batchelor and Dr. David Livingston interviewed space law expert Laura Montgomery on April 16th:

Laura Montgomery, Atty, was back with us to stress the importance of establishing space property rights for the commercial industry and future plans for space development. She went over laws, regulations, policies and treaties and made a very strong case for property rights. In addition, she suggested how to accomplish with space development and was U.S. laws would be to use as models, precedent and planning.

And a longer interview with Montgomery was done on The Space Show on March 19th:

** An interesting overview of Moon and Mars development in light of SpaceX Starship capabilities: Space policy: The Moon and Mars simultaneously | The Space Review – Apr.12.2025

In a nutshell, this article proposes that America’s human spaceflight (HSF) policy be directed to go both to the Moon and Mars simultaneously for exploration and the development of permanent bases. This is based upon accepting the likelihood of the emergence of multiple heavy-lift commercial transportation systems that will be far more cost-effective than NASA’s current plans. The idea that we cannot go to Mars without establishing a base on the Moon is not obviously true and something that SpaceX certainly does not believe.

A discussion of the article on the Space Frontier Foundation Youtube channel:

** Children of the Sky: Raising Kids In Space | SpaceRip

The coming generation of larger, much less expensive rockets (from SpaceX, Blue Origin and others) is propelling dreams of permanent settlements beyond Earth. But can a space community truly be said to exist before the first child is born there? Can Mars ever really be a good place to raise kids? What are the risks around pregnancy and childbirth off-planet? Who should get to decide if space is safe enough for children? Would you edit your child’s genome to permanently adapt them to a different world? Can a child raised in space ever return to Earth? Might the children of the Solar System someday strike out for the stars? Six renown experts help us explore these and other challenging questions, as we witness kids in amazing situations far beyond the world of our species’ birth. A “Children of the Sky” documentary.

=== Other space habitat and settlement news and articles:

=== Earth views from ISS

** Sunshine on Earth – NASA

The Sun’s glint beams off a partly cloudy Atlantic Ocean just after sunrise as the International Space Station orbited 263 miles above on March 5, 2025. The space station serves as a unique platform for observing Earth with both hands-on and automated equipment. Station crew members have produced hundreds of thousands of images, recording phenomena such as storms in real time, observing natural events such as volcanic eruptions as they happen, and providing input to ground personnel for programming automated Earth-sensing systems.