NASA and Russian spaceOfficials are at odds as a critical leak on the International Space Station (ISS) continues to deteriorate. Although we have been aware of the problem for years, the leak has recently gotten worse, raising concerns about the safety of the crew and the long-term viability of the orbiting laboratory. While Russia points to micro-vibrations, NASA believes several factors are at play. With the station losing air at an alarming rate, the race is on to find a solution before risking lives.

Years-old ISS leak worsens, sparking international disagreement

THE International Space Station (ISS) has reportedly been leaked for five years, with officials aware of the problem since its discovery. The leak comes from a Russian-controlled section, coming from a tunnel connecting the Zvezda module to a docking port. Despite ongoing investigations, NASA and Roscosmosthe American and Russian space agencies have not yet agreed on the root cause of the problem.

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According to CNN, former NASA astronaut Bob Cabana mentioned that the US space agency “expressed concerns about the structural integrity of the (leaking module) and the possibility of a catastrophic failure.” However, the Russian team “does not believe in catastrophic disintegration.” …is realistic,” Cabana said.

“The Russians believe that continued operations are safe, but they cannot prove it to our satisfaction,” Cabana added in his statement Wednesday. “And the United States believes it’s not safe, but we can’t prove it to Russia’s satisfaction.”

Leak inside the International Space Station

The leak was first noticed in 2019. As of April 2024, air was leaking at a rate of 1.7 kilograms per day, according to reports. (ISS) typically has seven to ten astronauts living and working there at any given time. While Russian engineers attribute the problem to micro-vibrations, NASA points to a complex interplay of factors, including pressure, strain, material properties and environmental exposure. “The Russian team continues to research and plug leaks, they do not believe that a catastrophic disintegration of PrK is realistic,” Cabana added.

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To mitigate risks, NASA has implemented precautionary measures, such as sealing off specific sections of the ISS when necessary. At a Nov. 8 briefing, NASA astronaut Michael Barratt, fresh off the Crew-8 mission after nearly eight months in space, said his Russian counterparts had been “very open” about the question, emphasizing that “there was no information deficit”. and that both sides are fully aware of each other’s conclusions, according to Newsweek.

Astronauts aboard the International Space Station have been advised to take extra precautions as the leak problem persists. Despite differing opinions on its severity, NASA and Roscosmos continue to communicate openly, CNN reports. “We have a very open and transparent relationship with our fellow Russian cosmonauts,” Barratt said.