Roscosmos and NASA have agreed to keep the International Space Station in service until 2028, a decision that underscores the importance of continued collaboration in space exploration despite the broader geopolitical tensions between Russia and the United States. The agreement was announced following a meeting between Roscosmos Director Dmitry Bakanov and acting NASA Administrator Sean Duffy in Houston, Texas, marking their first in-person discussion in eight years.
The two agencies have agreed to extend the operational lifespan of the ISS, which has been a symbol of international cooperation since its launch in 1998. The decision to continue operations beyond 2024, when Russia had previously hinted at potential withdrawal, reflects the enduring value of the ISS as a platform for scientific research and diplomatic engagement. Discussions during the meeting also included future lunar missions and joint deep-space exploration initiatives, with plans to deorbit the station by 2030.
Bakanov emphasized the positive outcome of the talks, stating that the dialogue went well and that both sides agreed to maintain the ISS’s operation until 2028. The collaboration continues to be one of the few areas where Russia and the U.S. can work together despite their current political disagreements, particularly in the context of the Ukraine conflict. The decision also includes the possibility of the ISS being decommissioned by 2030, indicating a long-term strategic plan for the station’s future.
As part of their ongoing cooperation, Bakanov invited Duffy to attend a November launch from the Baikonur Cosmodrome, which will carry an American astronaut. Duffy accepted the invitation, further solidifying the partnership. The ISS remains a vital platform for scientific research, and its continued operation is seen as beneficial to both nations and the global scientific community.