During his visit, Bakanov will engage in discussions with U.S. Transportation Secretary and acting NASA Administrator Sean Duffy to explore the future of the International Space Station. The International Space Station has been a symbol of international cooperation since its establishment in 1998. The deorbiting of the ISS is scheduled for a date to be determined in the future, and the talks aim to outline the process and responsibilities of each participating country. Additionally, the discussion will involve potential cross-flight agreements that could allow Russian and American astronauts to travel on each other’s spacecraft, enhancing shared capabilities and mission objectives.
A statement from Roscosmos highlighted the importance of maintaining cooperation and the long-term strategic importance of such agreements. The meeting is seen as a step towards rebuilding trust and advancing joint space missions. Officials from both agencies are expected to outline future collaboration opportunities, including potential joint projects and shared research initiatives. This development comes amid ongoing geopolitical tensions, making the renewed cooperation particularly significant for the space industry.