International partners involved in the International Space Station (ISS) program have agreed to extend its operational lifespan until 2030.
This decision is detailed in a report from RSC Energia, the organization responsible for the design, operation, and logistical support of the Russian segment of the ISS, including resupply and crew missions utilizing Soyuz MS and Progress MS spacecraft.
The report further specifies that the Russian government had previously approved the continued operation of the Russian segment with crew onboard until 2028, as far back as 2023.
Earlier statements from Roscosmos indicated that discussions regarding extending the station’s operation with the United States until 2030 were ongoing. The American segments of the ISS are indeed certified for operation up to the year 2030.
Concurrently, preparations are advancing for the deployment of Russia’s own Orbital Station. The initial module of this new station is projected for launch into orbit in 2028. This transition is intended to ensure an uninterrupted continuation of crewed flights and scientific research in Earth orbit. A comprehensive program comprising 30 scientific experiments has already been developed for the Russian Orbital Station.
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