Roscosmos and NASA Detect Air Leak in Russia’s Zvezda Module
Roscosmos announced Wednesday the detection of an air leak on the International Space Station (ISS). The leak, found in Russia’s Zvezda module, is reportedly not endangering the crew at this time. This incident follows an earlier confirmation by NASA of a similar issue, heightening concerns about the recurring problem.
Roscosmos Confirms Issue, No Immediate Danger
Russian space agency Roscosmos assured that the current air leak poses no immediate threat to the crew or the ISS itself. Specialists are actively working to identify and address the problem, emphasizing the safety of the astronauts on board.
NASA Reports Growing Leak in Zvezda Module
NASA’s ISS Program Manager Joel Montalbano revealed that a small but expanding air leak was detected in Russia’s Zvezda life support module. While the leak is under observation, it has not impacted the safety of the astronauts embarking on the upcoming Crew-8 mission.
History of Air Leak Issues on ISS
The recent detection of an air leak in the Zvezda module echoes previous incidents in 2020 and 2021. Despite attempts to address the problem, including temporary patches, the recurring nature of the leaks raises concerns about the station’s long-term viability.
Future of ISS and Russian Space Station
As Russia plans its exit from the ISS in 2024 and explores the creation of its own space station, questions arise about the continued collaboration between Roscosmos and NASA. The ISS, a symbol of international cooperation, faces challenges as geopolitical tensions impact its operations.