NASA is “deeply concerned” over the safety of the International Space Station (ISS), citing long-standing issues with cracks and air leaks, as well as funding shortfalls. The agency aims to deorbit the station by 2030, but experts warn that a lack of budget could compromise its safe removal.
Cracks in the ISS have been a concern for years, with recent reports highlighting the need for urgent repairs. Air leaks have also caused problems, including a recent incident where floating tea leaves were used to help identify the source of one of those leaks.
Despite efforts to mitigate the risks, NASA officials say the station has entered its “riskiest period” due to a combination of these issues and Trump’s proposed 20% budget cut. The agency is working with SpaceX to develop a deorbit vehicle (USDV) to safely remove the ISS from orbit within the given timeframe.
However, SpaceX CEO Elon Musk recently recommended NASA deorbit the station sooner, citing concerns over its continued operation. Meanwhile, the issue of funding has sparked a debate over whether NASA’s proposed budget cuts would compromise its ability to safely complete the mission.
A recent report by the Aerospace Safety Advisory Panel (ASAP) highlighted the need for adequate funding to ensure the ISS’s safe removal. The panel warned that a lack of resources could lead to increased risks and potentially catastrophic consequences.
NASA officials will meet with Russian officials later this month to discuss ongoing investigations into leaks in the station’s Zvezda module. In the meantime, ISS managers are taking precautions to limit repressurizations of the affected area.
The agency’s decision to deorbit the ISS by 2030 has sparked concerns over its impact on future space missions and the potential consequences for astronauts. With the clock ticking, NASA must address these issues head-on to ensure the station’s safe removal and avoid any catastrophic outcomes.
Source: https://interestingengineering.com/space/iss-enters-riskiest-period-nasa-warns?group=test_b