Published on November 15, 2024 at 5:23 p.m.
NASA experts are very worried. Those from the Russian agency Roscosmos seem to be sleeping soundly. A leak on the International Space Station creates tensions between the two agencies.
It’s been leaking for 4 years
An air leak in the Zvezda module of the International Space Station has been a concern for more than four years. Rather than being repaired, the leak widened. NASA now fears a risk of catastrophic failure. According to its experts, the leak could call into question the structural integrity of the module. In other words, they see a possibility that this part of the station will explode.
Divergence d’opinions
But the Russian space agency sees no serious threat. Their leaders even mention that the catastrophic disintegration of the module is unrealistic. A few months ago the leak doubled and is now reportedly leaking up to 1.7kg of air every day. Attempts at plugging have so far reduced the loss by 30%. The difference of opinion on the seriousness of the situation obviously creates tensions between NASA and Roscosmos.
Photo : NASA
Locked
While awaiting adequate repair, the crew seals the Russian module to limit risks to the rest of the space station. Sealing the Russian module’s airlock causes some discomfort among crew members, but it is a precaution that members must live with. NASA even asked SpaceX to add an emergency seat to the SpaceX Crew Dragon craft, just in case.
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