The International Space Station will soon be retired

August 30, 2021: -The International Space Station started in 1998 when its first segments were launched, and it’s now beginning to show its age.

Since 2000, the ISS has housed a rotating group of astronauts from 19 countries continuously. The station has the only laboratory for long-duration microgravity research. It has been instrumental in several scientific developments, including creating more efficient water filtration systems and exploring new ways to treat Alzheimer’s and cancer.

“The International Space Station is approved to operate through at least December 2024 with our agreements with the international partners,” said the Commercial Low Earth Orbit Program Office manager, Angela Hart from NASA.

“However, as we are actively working to keep doing science and research, we understand that the ISS at some point will have its end of life.”

But NASA is not willing to build the next space station. Instead, the agency will depend on the technology of outside companies. A few, such as Sierra Space in Colorado and Houston-based Axiom Space, are well on their way to constructing their commercial space stations.

Watch the video above to learn about the future of the International Space Station and the companies working toward building their space outposts.