Russia sees potential for post-ISS space cooperation with U.S.

Russia believes future space cooperation with the United States is possible following the eventual closure of the International Space Station (ISS). Dmitri Bakánov, the head of Russia's space agency Roscosmos, indicated that both nations have shared technical information about their respective projects, opening avenues for collaboration in Earth orbit after the ISS ceases operations.

Currently, Roscosmos and NASA maintain a close working relationship aboard the ISS, characterized by coordinated crews and shared operational segments. Bakánov described the station as a shared infrastructure, a "microstate in Earth orbit," emphasizing the mutual dependence and necessity of support between the Russian and U.S. segments. He noted that in critical situations, one partner can always rely on the other for assistance.

The U.S. has requested an extension of the ISS's operational lifespan until 2030, two years beyond its initially planned decommissioning. Russia fully supports this proposal, viewing it as an opportunity to conduct further orbital experiments within the framework of this joint project. However, Bakánov stressed that this extension does not affect Russia's independent plans to develop its own Russian Orbital Station.

The first module of the Russian Orbital Station, a universal node, is scheduled for manufacturing and launch in 2028. The ISS, which began its existence in 1998, has been continuously inhabited since November 2000. It has hosted nearly 300 astronauts from 26 countries, primarily Americans and Russians. Despite its scientific success and role as a symbol of international cooperation, the station is slated to cease operations by the end of 2030 due to accumulated system wear.