Part 8/9:
Should the U.S. move towards retiring the ISS, several companies are poised to fill the gap with commercial space stations. Companies like Vast Space and Axiom Space have plans to launch next-generation space stations that aim to serve as successors to the ISS. Vast Space's Haven 2, for instance, is set to prioritize astronaut comfort with modern amenities and connectivity options, while Axiom Space is gearing up for its own operational free-flying space station.
Additionally, NASA's Artemis project may establish a lunar base that could serve as a stepping stone for future manned missions to Mars. The combination of returning to the Moon and progressing Mars objectives aligns with Musk's vision of stepping beyond existing space platforms.