SpaceX CEO Elon Musk has called for ending the International Space Station (ISS) program early, recommending that it be deorbited within two years rather than the current five-year target. In a post on his social media site X, Musk argued that the ISS “has served its purpose” and has “very little incremental utility.” This move comes after SpaceX won a NASA contract last year to deorbit the ISS after 2030.
Musk’s statement suggests that he believes the benefits of continuing the ISS program are not significant enough to justify maintaining it in orbit for an extended period. The decision on whether to follow his recommendation is ultimately up to the President, but Musk’s comments indicate a shift in thinking about the future of the ISS program.
Source: https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-02-20/elon-musk-calls-for-ending-nasa-s-space-station-program-early