The future of the International Space Station (ISS) is at a turning point, with major changes expected in the coming years. Here’s what lies ahead:

1. Planned Decommissioning (2030)

NASA and its international partners (Roscosmos, ESA, JAXA, and CSA) have agreed to continue operating the ISS until at least 2030.

After 2030, the ISS is expected to be deorbited and guided into a controlled reentry, likely over the Pacific Ocean’s “Point Nemo,” a spacecraft graveyard.

2. Transition to Commercial Space Stations

NASA is actively supporting private companies to develop commercial space stations.

Companies like Axiom Space, Blue Origin (Orbital Reef), and Northrop Grumman are working on private orbital outposts that could replace the ISS.

These stations will serve scientific, industrial, and tourism purposes.