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Nasa to Decommission ISS by 2030, Eyes Space Cities

10/11/2025

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Summary

Story summary

NASA plans to decommission the International Space Station by 2030, shifting to space cities.
The ISS has hosted over 300 astronauts from 26 countries since its 1998 launch.
High maintenance costs drive the transition, with Vast Space and China's Tiangong Space Station emerging as competitors.
Questions remain about contract awards and international cooperation as the ISS prepares for final descent.

History

Historical Context

The International Space Station (ISS) launched on November 20, 1998, with the Zarya module, marking a historic collaboration among NASA, Roscosmos, ESA, JAXA, and CSA. Over its 25 years, the ISS has hosted over 300 astronauts from 26 countries. As NASA plans to decommission the ISS by 2030, emerging competitors like China's Tiangong Space Station could reshape future space exploration dynamics.

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Story summary

NASA plans to decommission the International Space Station by 2030, shifting to space cities.
The ISS has hosted over 300 astronauts from 26 countries since its 1998 launch.
High maintenance costs drive the transition, with Vast Space and China's Tiangong Space Station emerging as competitors.
Questions remain about contract awards and international cooperation as the ISS prepares for final descent.

1 / 2