SpaceX To Develop ‘Deorbit’ Craft For The International Space Station

The International Space Station (ISS) is scheduled to be decommissioned by 2030, with SpaceX, the company led by Elon Musk, chosen to develop a vehicle for its controlled deorbit. This specialized vehicle will ensure the ISS is gradually lowered to a safe orbit, minimizing the risk to populated regions.

There are different methods to deorbit a satellite. Some are designed to burn up upon re-entering Earth’s atmosphere, while others are directed towards deep space. For the ISS, the plan involves directing it to a remote area in the Pacific Ocean, away from human settlements.

During its time in orbit, the ISS has been instrumental in numerous observations, experiments, and educational endeavors, symbolizing global collaboration. It has provided a model for scientific research, space exploration, and international partnerships.

Ken Bowersox, NASA’s associate administrator for Space Operations Mission Directorate, noted that using a US Deorbit Vehicle for the ISS will ensure a secure and orderly transition in low Earth orbit. This choice aligns with NASA’s future goals for commercial space destinations and ongoing use of near-Earth space.

The future beyond the ISS is still uncertain. There are proposals for a new space station, while others suggest that robotic missions might offer a more cost-effective alternative. Some have even humorously proposed that NASA could have sold the ISS to Musk and waited for it to naturally re-enter Earth’s atmosphere, as mentioned in online discussions.

The end of the ISS represents a significant milestone in space exploration, highlighting a legacy of international cooperation and scientific progress for the global community.