The ISS is coming down but why? How? When? The International Space Station (ISS) was a groundbreaking achievement that united countries in their shared love of space exploration. But if this mission was so important, then why are scientists taking it down? Discover the answers in this article!
Why is it coming down?
The International Space Station (ISS) is aging and has become too expensive for NASA to maintain. As a result, it is planned to crash down in 2030.
How will the ISS return to Earth?
NASA is going to deorbit the ISS, directing it to crash into the ocean. This process will be challenging because of its massive size- it is the equivalent of a football field.
Will there be another space station to replace it?
Yes! Private companies, like SpaceX, are stepping in to lead more human space missions. They plan to launch to launch commercial space stations, which will be privately owned companies, paving the way for more innovations in space exploration.
What would life be like on the ISS?
Life on the ISS is unlike anything on Earth. Astronauts and Cosmonauts live and work on the ISS since 2000. But what does it look like to call the ISS home? Think about a hair cut in space! Astronauts would have to use vacuums to suck up any hair after its cut so it doesn’t float away. Meals come in special packaging to prevent crumbs from damaging equipment or interfering with breathing. Astronauts aboard the ISS have to exercise daily, even up to 2 hours, because life in space without gravity is hard on your muscles and bones. And a bonus of living on the ISS is every 45 minutes you can see a sunset or sunrise because it orbits the Earth every 90 minutes.
The ISS was an amazing space exploration program that has helped connect countries, it’s unlike anything else orbiting the Earth.
So, how do you feel about the ISS coming down?
