NASA Faces Growing ISS Leak Risk After Five Years

NASA has been grappling with a significant leak in a small Russian module of the International Space Station (ISS) since September 2019. Recent reports indicate that the leak rate has escalated from less than 1 pound of atmosphere per day to 3.7 pounds by April 2024. This alarming increase has prompted NASA to classify the leak as the highest level of risk on its risk management system. The agency is working closely with Roscosmos to monitor the situation and has decided to keep the hatch leading to the affected tunnel closed to mitigate risks. The ISS, which has been operational for over 25 years, faces challenges as its components age. NASA and Russian officials have been in discussions regarding the leak, but they have yet to agree on what constitutes an untenable leak rate. The situation is further complicated by the ongoing negotiations about the future of the ISS, with plans to extend its operations through 2028, and potentially to 2030. As NASA considers transitioning its activities to private space stations after the ISS's life ends, it has initiated development projects with companies like Axiom Space and Blue Origin. However, Northrop Grumman has withdrawn from the competition, citing profitability concerns. The agency's plans are hindered by budget constraints, inflation, and supply chain issues, which could impact the future of human spaceflight in low Earth orbit. In light of these developments, NASA's focus remains on ensuring the safety of astronauts aboard the ISS while navigating the complexities of aging infrastructure and future space exploration initiatives.