When will the International Space Station be deorbited?

The International Space Station is scheduled to be safely deorbited in 2030.

What are astronauts doing on the ISS before deorbit?

Astronauts are performing spacewalks for maintenance, installing new solar arrays, and preparing the station for its controlled reentry.

Who is helping NASA deorbit the International Space Station?

NASA has contracted SpaceX to build a deorbit vehicle for the International Space Station's controlled reentry.

Home / Science / ISS Deorbit Countdown: Astronauts Prep for Fiery End

ISS Deorbit Countdown: Astronauts Prep for Fiery End

8 Jan

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Summary

International Space Station to be deorbited in 2030.
Astronauts conduct spacewalks for station upkeep and upgrades.
New solar arrays will provide power for final years of operation.

ISS Deorbit Countdown: Astronauts Prep for Fiery End

After more than 25 years in orbit, the International Space Station (ISS) is slated for a controlled deorbit in 2030. Astronauts are currently engaged in spacewalks to prepare the station for its final mission, focusing on essential maintenance and upgrades. These extravehicular activities are critical for ensuring the ISS remains operational and controllable.

Upcoming spacewalks will install modification kits and route cables to support new roll-out solar arrays (iROSAs). These advanced solar power sources are designed to supplement the ISS's aging power supply, guaranteeing sufficient energy for its remaining years. The installation of these arrays is vital for the safe and controlled deorbit process.

NASA has contracted SpaceX to build a deorbit vehicle to assist in the final stages of the ISS's reentry into Earth's atmosphere. This controlled descent aims to ensure that a significant portion of the station's hardware lands safely in a designated ocean splashdown zone, concluding its historic mission.