What would Russia's inability to launch crewed missions mean for the ISS?

  • Published In: New Scientist, 2025, v. 268, n. 3573/3574. P. 18 1 of 3

  • Database: Academic Search Ultimate 2 of 3

  • Authored By: Sparkes, Matthew 3 of 3

Abstract

The article discusses the implications of damage to Russia's Baikonur Cosmodrome, the only launch site capable of sending crewed missions to the International Space Station (ISS). The damage could take up to two years to repair, raising concerns for NASA about the future of the ISS, which is already scheduled for decommissioning by 2030. Without Russian support, NASA may need to invest additional resources to maintain the ISS, as it currently relies on collaboration between the US and Russian segments for operations. The article highlights the geopolitical tensions affecting international space cooperation and the potential challenges NASA faces if Russia withdraws from the ISS project entirely. [Extracted from the article]

Additional Information

  • Source:New Scientist. 2025/12, Vol. 268, Issue 3573/3574, p18
  • Document Type:Article
  • Subject Area:Politics and Government
  • Publication Date:2025
  • ISSN:0262-4079
  • DOI:10.1016/s0262-4079(25)02016-0
  • Accession Number:189928534
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