Roscosmos ISS Departure Concerns NASA—Leaked Contingency Plan Shows Pulling Out Astronauts as Solution

The Roscosmos ISS departure still concerns NASA. When Dmitry Rogozin was still the head of the Russian space agency, he made comments that were criticized by U.S. officials and other concerned space experts.

After, various issues between NASA and Roscosmos arose. These include the controversial photos of cosmonauts holding some Russia-backed state flags.

Although the recent tension between the two space agencies is quite serious, the newly appointed Roscosmos chief, Yuri Borisov, clarified that the Russian space agency will still fulfill its duties.

However, the official added that their decision to leave the space lab after 2024 is already finalized.

NASA's Leaked Roscosmos ISS Departure Contingency Plan

According to Engadget's latest report, NASA and the White House made a contingency plan back in 2021, which is the period when Dmitry Rogozin was making alarming statements, including deorbiting ISS.

One of the international space union's major solutions is pulling astronauts from the orbital space laboratory. This will allow NASA to ensure the safety of its astronauts in case Roscosmos suddenly leaves the space station.

As of writing, U.S. modules are the main source of power. These also allow the International Space Station to keep its balance in orbit.

But, Roscosmos' thrusters allow ISS to float in space. If ever these thrusters are removed, there's a high chance that the space lab will experience an uncontrolled Earth re-entry.

Other Solutions of NASA

As of press time, NASA, ESA (European Space Agency), Japan, and other space partners are trying to encourage Russia to extend its stay until 2030.

But, it seems like Roscosmos is strong in its final decision. In the leaked contingency plan, it was revealed that NASA is considering using alternative thrusters that can replace the rockets of the Russian space agency.

This means that NASA may form new partnerships with SpaceX, Northrup Grumman, and Boeing. If you want to see further details about the 2021 contingency plan for NASA, you can visit this link.

Previously, creators were invited to watch the NASA Artemis I mission launch.

On the other hand, NASA's Roscosmos-ESA spacewalk was a success.

For more news updates about Roscosmos, NASA, and other space agencies, always keep your tabs open here at TechTimes.

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Written by: Griffin Davis