Nanoracks, based in Webster, TX, recently announced its collaboration with Lockheed Martin and Voyager Space (Nanorack’s parent company) to develop Starlab,  an inflatable space station slated to launch in 2027. Starlab will utilize both metal and inflatable components, enabling the space station to be launched, unfolded, and inflated from one rocket rather than transporting pieces using multiple rockets (and years) as was required to assemble the International Space Station.

Starlab’s main structure is a large inflatable habitat with a metallic docking assembly. The onboard, regenerative Environmental Control and Life Support System (ECLSS) will provide clean water and air, allowing four crew members to continuously live and work in the 340 cubic meter habitat.

The First-Ever Free-flying Commercial Space Station

The free-flying, continuously crewed commercial platform will host the first-ever science park in space – the George Washington Carver (GWC) Science Park. GWC will consist of four main operational areas: a biology lab, a plant habitation lab, a physical science lab, a materials research lab, plus an open workbench area.

The George Washington Carver Science Park was founded to honor George Washington Carver and his legacy of scientific discovery for the benefit of life on Earth. Nanoracks’ team of experienced utilization specialists are tailoring the GWC Science Park to meet the needs of researchers and commercial customers.