NASA Investigates Air Leak on ISS

NASA is currently addressing a critical air leak in the Russian segment of the International Space Station (ISS), first detected in 2019 and recently escalated to a loss of approximately 1.7 kilograms of air per day. Recent efforts, including repairs, have reduced the leak rate by about one-third, but investigations continue to pinpoint the root cause, focusing on internal and external welds. The presence of cracks and about 50 other areas of concern in the Zvezda module has led NASA to classify the situation at the highest risk level, prompting discussions about potential evacuation procedures for astronauts. While precautionary measures are in place, such as keeping the hatch to the affected area closed, there are concerns that a permanent seal could eliminate critical docking ports for Russian spacecraft. Tensions between NASA and Roscosmos regarding the management of the leak have emerged, raising questions about the future operational integrity of the ISS. As the ISS approaches its planned decommissioning between 2028 and 2030, NASA is also focused on long-term solutions and potential deorbit plans.