NASA has chosen SpaceX to design and deliver the US Deorbit Vehicle, a crucial component in the safe and controlled deorbiting of the International Space Station (ISS) at the end of its operational life in 2030.
A scene from the 2023 movie I.S.S
The US Deorbit Vehicle will ensure the responsible deorbiting of the ISS, avoiding risk to populated areas. NASA will own and operate the vehicle after development, with SpaceX responsible for its development. The vehicle is expected to destructively breakup during the re-entry process, along with the ISS.
“Selecting a U.S. Deorbit Vehicle for the International Space Station will help NASA and its international partners ensure a safe and responsible transition in low Earth orbit at the end of station operations. This decision also supports NASA’s plans for future commercial destinations and allows for the continued use of space near Earth,” said Ken Bowersox, associate administrator for Space Operations Mission Directorate at NASA Headquarters in Washington. “The orbital laboratory remains a blueprint for science, exploration, and partnerships in space for the benefit of all.”
The ISS has been a symbol of international cooperation in space exploration, with five space agencies operating the station since 1998. The safe deorbit of the ISS is a shared responsibility among all five agencies. The contract has a potential value of $843 million, with the launch service for the US Deorbit Vehicle to be procured in the future.
The ISS has been a unique scientific platform, enabling crew members to conduct experiments across various disciplines, including Earth and space science, biology, and technology demonstrations. With over 3,300 experiments conducted in microgravity, the station has paved the way for future commercial stations, solidifying its position as the cornerstone of space commerce.
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