The International Space Station (ISS) has been experiencing a leak since 2019, located in a Russian segment known as the PrK module. NASA and the Russian space agency Roscosmos have been aware of the leak but differ on its severity and implications for the station's future.
A recent NASA report indicates that the leak has intensified, potentially threatening the ISS's operational goal of lasting until 2030. Bob Cabana, chair of NASA's ISS Advisory Committee, warned that it could lead to a 'catastrophic failure' of the station.
Conversely, Russian officials have minimized the leak's significance, asserting it will not impact future operations. The ISS, continuously occupied since November 2000, has infrastructure that is approximately 25 years old, which may have developed tiny fissures due to mechanical stress and impacts from debris.
NASA and Roscosmos have agreed to seal the affected segment if air loss becomes 'untenable.' Currently, air is escaping at a rate of 2 to 2.5 pounds (0.9 to 1.1 kilograms) per day, with a recent spike to 3.7 pounds (1.7 kg) noted in April. The agencies are closely monitoring the situation and have plans for an additional seat on future SpaceX Crew Dragon flights for potential astronaut evacuation.
NASA astronaut Michael Barratt acknowledged the age of the station, indicating that further wear and tear is expected. The ISS is slated for deorbiting after 2030, with no plans for a direct replacement, as NASA shifts focus to crewed missions to the Moon and Mars.