Vast announces line of high-power satellite buses

2026-05-19 · Source: SpaceNews · Field: Technology & Digital — Cloud Computing & IT Infrastructure, Emerging Technologies & Innovation, Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning · Depth: Fundamental Awareness, short

Summary

Vast, a commercial space station developer, announced on May 19 its entry into satellite manufacturing with a new line of high-power satellite buses, utilizing technologies developed for its space stations. The initial product is a flat-panel bus providing 15 kilowatts of power, measuring 2.2 by 3.6 meters, with a dry mass of 700 kilograms, capable of hosting payloads of at least 350 kilograms. Designed for low Earth orbit, it features an electric propulsion system offering over 500 meters per second of delta-v. An optional Nvidia Vera Rubin Space-1 module will enable advanced computing for orbital data centers and AI. Vast sees strong demand for these buses, citing applications in communications, radar imaging, and national security. The company has secured one confidential customer for four spacecraft, with an option for 200 more, and plans to launch 10 initial satellites in late 2027. This diversification builds on systems tested on Haven Demo in November 2025 and aligns with its Haven-1 space station development.

Key takeaway

For AI Architects or investors evaluating orbital computing infrastructure, Vast's new high-power satellite buses present a significant development. You should consider how these 15-kilowatt platforms, especially with the Nvidia Vera Rubin Space-1 module, could enable more robust in-orbit data centers and AI applications. This offering signals a shift towards more powerful, specialized satellite capabilities, potentially influencing your future investment or deployment strategies for space-based services.

Key insights

Vast is diversifying into high-power satellite buses by repurposing its commercial space station technology to meet growing market demand.

Principles

• Diversification is key for successful space companies.
• Repurposing existing tech accelerates new product lines.
• High-power satellites are the future for many applications.

Method

Vast applies its space station component development, including systems tested on Haven Demo, to produce satellite buses, with only solar arrays and thrusters as major exceptions.

In practice

• Integrate Nvidia Vera Rubin Space-1 for orbital AI.
• Design for 15 kW power and 350 kg payload capacity.
• Consider Starship-compatible designs for larger spacecraft.

Topics

• Satellite Buses
• Commercial Space Stations
• Orbital Data Centers
• Spacecraft Manufacturing
• Electric Propulsion
• NVIDIA Vera Rubin Space-1

Best for: Director of AI/ML, AI Architect, Investor

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Editorial summary, takeaway, and curation by AIssential. Original article published by SpaceNews.