Lockheed Martin, Nanoracks, and Voyager Space have formed a powerhouse partnership to launch Starlab, a cutting-edge commercial space station, by 2027. This semi-inflatable platform will serve the U.S. government and private sector, designed for permanent human habitation.
As the International Space Station (ISS) approaches retirement by decade's end, NASA’s Commercial Low-Earth Orbit Destinations (CLD) program turns to industry leaders. Starlab, developed by Lockheed Martin, Nanoracks, and Voyager Space, stands ready for orbit as early as 2027, potentially becoming the world’s first fully commercial, free-flying space station.
Starlab will enable astronauts to perform advanced scientific experiments in microgravity, from material science to plant cultivation. It ensures a sustained U.S. presence in low-Earth orbit amid China's expanding manned space efforts.
The station features a habitat module offering 9 cubic meters of pressurized volume, propulsion systems, and a dedicated laboratory. Overall, it provides 340 m³ of habitable space powered by four solar arrays generating 60 kW. A regenerative Environmental Control and Life Support System (ECLSS) supports a permanent crew of four astronauts, complemented by a robotic arm for cargo handling and external experiments.
“We are thrilled to join this innovative team, empowering businesses to harness their strengths,” said Lisa Callahan, vice president and general manager at Lockheed Martin. “Lockheed Martin’s proven expertise in complex spacecraft, Nanoracks’ business innovation, and Voyager’s financial acumen create a customer-centric space station to shape our future.”
Looking ahead, Starlab won’t stand alone. Axiom Space plans to attach a private module to the ISS from 2024 and add three more by late 2027, eventually detaching for independent operations. Sierra Space, partnering with Blue Origin, is also advancing its own orbital outpost.
