NASA has selected SpaceX for an $843 million contract to develop a specialized Deorbit Vehicle to safely bring down the International Space Station in 2030 as it nears the end of its operational life. This spacecraft, separate from SpaceX's Dragon capsule, will be managed by NASA to ensure a secure disposal of the ISS without risking populated areas.
The decision comes as NASA plans for the retirement of the ISS around 2030 due to aging components, with SpaceX's Deorbit Vehicle aimed at safely transitioning the station into the Pacific Ocean after its mission. The development of this crucial vehicle will aid in maintaining the US presence in low Earth orbit post-2030, with SpaceX, led by Elon Musk, taking charge of the vehicle's construction under NASA's supervision.
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