What's Happening?
A small section of the International Space Station (ISS) that has been experiencing persistent leaks for years has reportedly stopped venting atmosphere into space. The leaks were traced to microscopic structural cracks within the PrK module on the Russian
segment of the ISS, located between a Progress spacecraft airlock and the Zvezda module. This issue has been a significant concern for both Russian and U.S. operators, especially after the leakage rate doubled in 2024, prompting NASA to classify it as a 'high likelihood' and 'high consequence' risk. Recently, two sources indicated that the leaks have ceased, a fact now confirmed by NASA. According to NASA spokesperson Josh Finch, the pressure in the transfer tunnel attached to the Zvezda Service Module is now stable. Russian cosmonauts have been diligently searching for these leaks over the years, using a sealant known as Germetall-1 to address the cracks.
Why It's Important?
The cessation of leaks in the Russian segment of the ISS is a significant development for the safety and operational stability of the space station. The persistent leaks posed a risk to the integrity of the ISS, potentially affecting the safety of the crew and the station's operational capabilities. By resolving this issue, NASA and Roscosmos can focus on other critical maintenance and scientific activities aboard the ISS. This development also underscores the importance of international collaboration in space exploration, as both U.S. and Russian space agencies have worked together to address this challenge. The resolution of this issue may also extend the operational lifespan of the ISS, allowing it to continue serving as a vital platform for scientific research and international cooperation in space.
What's Next?
NASA and Roscosmos will continue to monitor the previously observed cracks for any future changes. This ongoing vigilance is crucial to ensure that the leaks do not reoccur and that the structural integrity of the ISS is maintained. The successful resolution of this issue may lead to further inspections and maintenance activities to prevent similar problems in other parts of the station. Additionally, the experience gained from addressing these leaks could inform future space station designs and maintenance protocols, enhancing the safety and reliability of long-term space missions.
