# NASA opens bidding for private space stations

> NASA releases a 360-page request for proposals asking US companies to build commercial space stations to replace the International Space Station as early as 2030.
- Title: NASA opens bidding for private space stations · Ars Technica
- Summary: NASA releases a 360-page request for proposals asking US companies to build commercial space stations to replace the International Space Station as early as…
- Keywords: nasa, international space station, private space stations, commercial spaceflight, low-earth orbit, axiom space, voyager space, vast space, blue origin, spacex, boeing starliner, technology
- Source: Ars Technica — https://arstechnica.com/space/2026/10/nasa-issues-long-awaited-call-to-industry-for-private-space-stations
- Published: 2026-10-09T21:34:09+00:00
- Read time: 2 min
- Topics: nasa, international space station, private space stations, commercial spaceflight, low-earth orbit, axiom space, voyager space, vast space, blue origin, spacex, boeing starliner, technology
## NASA seeks private space stations
NASA released a 360-page request for proposals on Friday asking US commercial companies to develop private space stations that will succeed the International Space Station in low-Earth orbit as early as 2030.
## Why NASA needs this now
NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman said the agency will never give up its presence in low-Earth orbit and needs a place to conduct research, develop technologies, train crews, and prepare for missions to the Moon and…

> We will continue to need a place to conduct research, develop technologies, train crews, and prepare for missions to the Moon and Mars.
## Who is bidding
Axiom Space, Voyager Space, and Vast Space are expected bidders. Blue Origin won earlier funding but questions remain about its commitment. SpaceX appears unlikely to bid at this stage.
## The transportation problem
SpaceX plans to retire Crew Dragon as soon as possible, likely when the International Space Station is deorbited in 2030 or 2032. SpaceX has not offered to sell seats to private station operators.
## NASA backs Boeing Starliner
NASA provided an additional 359 million dollars to support Boeing's efforts to certify its Starliner spacecraft for crewed missions to low-Earth orbit, addressing the transportation gap.
## NASA will help with transport
In the request for proposals, NASA says contractors do not need proof of a signed transportation contract. NASA will furnish transportation for the first four service missions to private stations, likely brokering deals with Boeing.
## NASA sets crew transport prices
NASA estimates a four-seat crew flight in 2030 will cost 325 million dollars and a cargo flight 300 million dollars. This pricing helps private station providers by reducing their financial burden.
## Industry responds positively
Voyager Space, Axiom Space, and Vast Space all welcomed the release of the request for proposals. Industry responses are due to NASA on December 8, with final selection planned for April.
## Key takeaway

NASA released a request for proposals on Friday for private companies to build space stations that will succeed the International Space Station in low-Earth orbit by 2030, with two or more contractors to be selected.