American experts anticipate transitioning to a different orbital complex for research purposes following the decommissioning of the International Space Station (ISS). Ken Bowersox, assistant director at NASA overseeing human spaceflight, indicated that critical issues must be resolved before the ISS can be deorbited, including securing a vehicle for its descent and the existence of a successor station for low Earth orbit operations. Current agreements extend ISS usage through 2030, although uncertainties remain regarding Russian participation beyond 2028. Bowersox emphasized the importance of low Earth orbit operations in facilitating human presence on Mars and the Moon, noting ongoing efforts in this area. Elon Musk earlier proposed decommissioning the ISS to focus on Mars exploration, asserting its decreased utility. The ISS, operational since November 20, 1998, serves as a collaboration platform for multiple nations, underscoring its strategic role in international space endeavors and the need for continuity in human space research as stakeholders pivot towards future missions.
