NASA recently set its sights on SpaceX to develop a deorbit vehicle intended to end the operational life of the International Space Station (ISS). This strategic choice marks a crucial step as the US space agency prepares for the transition to commercial space stations.
NASA chooses SpaceX
SpaceX was selected after an initial request launched in March 2023, seeking to find a partner capable of developing a space vehicle capable of moving the U.S. sections of the ISS safely out of orbit. The contract, worth $843 millionaims to ensure controlled deorbiting of the structure after 2030. This will mark the end of an era of international cooperation in space exploration.
Moreover, several companies, including Axiom Space, Blue Origin, Sierra Space, Boeing, Amazon, Voyager Space, Lockheed Martin and Northrop Grumman, are already involved in development projects for private structures.
The move reflects NASA’s confidence in SpaceX’s expertise in space transportation and complex orbital maneuvers.
A dedicated vehicle
Such a deorbit vehicle could potentially be designed with several specific features and functionalities tailored to its crucial mission. The vehicle would probably be equipped with advanced propulsion systems, probably using liquid propellant engines for maximum precision in orbital adjustments. These motors will allow the vehicle to maneuver precisely to deorbit sections of the ISS in a controlled manner.
Of the advanced control systemssuch as autonomous navigation systems and sensors, will also be integrated to monitor the position and orientation of the vehicle relative to the ISS in real time.
Given the complexity of the mission and the risks associated with space operations, the vehicle will also be equipped with robust security systems to prevent collisions and minimize potential space debris.
Finally, the vehicle’s design could incorporate lightweight, strong materials and structures optimized to minimize mass while providing the robustness needed for orbital maneuvers and reentry into Earth’s atmosphere.
How will the procedure take place?
Before undertaking the actual deorbiting, an intensive preparation phase will of course be necessary. SpaceX and NASA engineers will determine the final desired orbit for the ISS. This will involve choosing a trajectory that allows controlled re-entry into the Earth’s atmosphere, usually over the Pacific Ocean to minimize risks to populations and property.
Given the international nature of the ISS, close coordination with ISS partners, and you understand Roscosmos (the Russian space agency) and other international partners, will naturally be essential to plan the deorbiting in a safe and coordinated manner.
Once preparations are complete, the deorbit execution phase can begin. The SpaceX deorbit vehicle, attached to a specific section of the ISS, will release with pinpoint precision to prevent damage to remaining structures. It will then use its engines to start gradually reduce altitude.
As the structure descends through the atmosphere, friction with the air will cause gradual deceleration. This phase will allow the controlled disintegration sections of the ISS. Meanwhile, sensors on board the deorbit vehicle would monitor trajectory and temperature in real time to ensure re-entry proceeds as planned.
Following this deorbit, SpaceX and NASA will conduct a thorough assessment to verify that all sections of the ISS have been successfully deorbited and debris has been safely disposed of.
