Vast Unveils 15 kW Commercial Satellite Bus, First 10 to Launch in Late 2027
Summary: Vast, the U.S. company behind the Haven Demo commercial space station, announced on May 19, 2026 a new line of high-power commercial satellites. The first platform offers 15 kW-class power with Vast's in-house electric thrusters, signing 4 confirmed orders with an option for 200 more, with the first batch of 10 satellites targeted for launch in late 2027.
The Vast Satellite Platform
The inaugural offering is a 15 kW-class bus designed for a wide range of power-intensive missions through flexible configurations. With a dry mass of approximately 700 kg and over 350 kg of payload capacity, it is designed for a 5-year operational life in LEO, with other orbits possible in the future.
Vast manufactures its 10 kW-class electric thrusters in-house, drawing directly from experience gained through Haven Demo operations. CEO Max Haot stated: "We believe Vast is uniquely positioned to compete in the high-power satellite market through the combination of our world-class engineering team, large-scale manufacturing capabilities and the on-orbit success of Haven Demo."
Commercial Orders
Vast has already secured a confidential customer committed to purchasing four satellites, with an option for 200 additional units. This marks Vast's expansion from a single space-station focus to a broader commercial space platform portfolio.
Image Credit
- Vast / Company Illustration