Russia Joins NASA’s Plans for ISS Deorbiting

Russia Joins NASA’s Plans for ISS Deorbiting

Russia’s space agency, Roscosmos, has announced its support for NASA’s plan to decommission the International Space Station (ISS) in 2030. This marks a significant shift in the agency’s stance, which had previously vacillated between commitment and abandonment. Yuri Borisov, head of Roscosmos, confirmed in an interview with RBC TV that Russia will cooperate with the United States in deorbiting the ISS. “In coordination with our American colleagues, we plan to de-orbit the station sometime around the beginning of 2030,” he stated.

Equipment Failures and Maintenance Concerns

Borisov cited the ISS’s deteriorating condition as a key factor in the decision to deorbit. “Today our cosmonauts have to spend more time repairing equipment and less and less time conducting experiments,” he said. Russian cosmonauts have recently identified several leaks in their portion of the space station. Other notable failures include coolant leaks in a Soyuz spacecraft and a Progress cargo spacecraft in recent months.

Private Space Industry Development

Russia acknowledges the need to develop a robust private space industry. Borisov stated that “the process of subsidizing a private space industry has only just begun with us.” However, he recognized the high risks involved and the challenges in raising funds from private investors.

Borisov’s Departure from Rogozin’s Stance

Borisov’s decision to align with NASA contrasts sharply with his predecessor, Dmitry Rogozin. Known for his provocative statements, Rogozin had threatened to abandon the ISS and even suggested dropping it on the United States during Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

Impact of War on Russian Space Program

Borisov hinted at the potential impact of the war on Russia’s space program. “The general economic situation, high inflation, and interest rates are influencing private space,” he said. “We hope this will be temporary.”

Competition with SpaceX

Russia intends to launch a competitor to SpaceX’s Starlink satellite constellation as early as 2030. However, Borisov acknowledged that developing a super heavy launch platform, a more ambitious undertaking, would take several years.

Additional Context

The International Space Station, a collaboration between multiple space agencies, has been in continuous operation since 2000. It has served as a platform for scientific research, technological development, and international cooperation. However, its advanced age and increasing maintenance costs have raised questions about its viability beyond 2030.