In recent years, the International Space Station (ISS) has been facing a number of problems, including cracks in a Russian module, air leaks, toilet failures, and issues with the oxygen supply system. Despite these challenges, the Biden administration has committed to keeping the ISS operational until at least 2030. NASA is currently working towards transitioning to privately owned space stations by then.
As part of this plan, NASA hopes to reduce costs and focus on other priorities by outsourcing the development of new space stations to commercial companies. The decommissioned ISS will disintegrate as it re-enters Earth’s atmosphere and falls into the ocean.
In addition to addressing these technical issues, NASA is also working on developing new technology for the future. For example, they are currently developing a system to recycle urine from astronauts and tourists on the upcoming Orbital Reef space station. This technology will not only help conserve resources but also pave the way for future long-duration missions in space.
The transition from the ISS to private space stations will not only save money for NASA but also open up opportunities for commercial space exploration. With the ISS being retired in the next decade, NASA is setting its sights on new frontiers in space exploration and colonization.
