Voyager Space Partners with Vivace to Advance Starlab Manufacturing

Voyager Space has announced a strategic partnership with Vivace, a Colorado-based engineering firm, to support the development of Starlab, the company’s commercial space station initiative. The collaboration marks a key milestone in Starlab’s transition from concept to production, with Vivace selected to manufacture the station’s primary structure.

Vivace to Deliver Core Structural Components

Under the agreement, Vivace will fabricate the pressure shell and micrometeoroid orbital debris (MMOD) shielding for Starlab’s main habitable module. These components are critical to the station’s integrity and long-term operability in low Earth orbit. Vivace’s work will be performed at its facility in Louisville, Colorado, with delivery of the flight structure scheduled for mid-2026.

The partnership builds on Vivace’s track record in aerospace manufacturing and systems engineering, reinforcing Voyager’s commitment to leveraging proven capabilities across the commercial space ecosystem.

Starlab Progresses Toward 2028 Launch

Starlab is being developed by Voyager Space in collaboration with Airbus and other international partners. Designed to support four astronauts and host a range of scientific and commercial payloads, the station is intended to replace the International Space Station as it nears retirement. The project is backed by NASA’s Commercial Low Earth Orbit Development Program and remains on track for launch in 2028.

“Vivace’s expertise in complex aerospace structures makes them an ideal partner for this phase of Starlab’s development,” said Marshall Smith, Chief Technology Officer at Voyager Space. “This agreement represents a major step forward in our mission to ensure continuous human presence in low Earth orbit.”

Industry Momentum for Commercial Space Infrastructure

The Voyager–Vivace partnership reflects growing momentum across the commercial space sector as companies prepare for a post-ISS environment. With NASA encouraging private investment and international collaboration, projects like Starlab are shaping the next generation of orbital infrastructure.

As the industry pivots toward sustainable, commercially operated platforms, partnerships like this one signal a maturing supply chain and a shared commitment to long-duration human spaceflight.