How SpaceX Will Destroy the International Space Station

NASA recently set its sights on SpaceX to develop a deorbiting vehicle to end the operational life of the International Space Station (ISS)This strategic choice marks a crucial step as the American space agency prepares for the transition to commercial space stations.

NASA chooses SpaceX

SpaceX was selected after an initial request for a partner to develop a spacecraft capable of safely moving the U.S. sections of the ISS out of orbit was launched in March 2023. The contract, worth $843 millionaims to ensure a controlled deorbit 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 projects to develop private structures. This decision reflects the trust NASA’s expertise in space transportation and complex orbital maneuvers.

A dedicated vehicle

Such a deorbiting vehicle could potentially be designed with several specific features and functionalities tailored to its critical mission. The vehicle would likely be equipped with advanced propulsion systemslikely using liquid propellant engines for maximum precision in orbital adjustments. These engines will allow the vehicle to maneuver precisely to deorbit sections of the ISS in a controlled manner. advanced control systemssuch as autonomous navigation systems and sensors, will also be integrated to monitor in real time the position and orientation of the vehicle relative to the ISS. 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 optimized structures to minimize mass while providing the robustness needed for orbital maneuvers and reentry into Earth’s atmosphere.
The ISS photographed from a Soyuz spacecraft after October 4, 2018. Credits: NASA

How will the procedure take place?

Before the actual deorbiting can begin, an intensive preparation phase will of course be necessary. SpaceX and NASA engineers will determine the desired final orbit for the ISS. This will involve choosing a trajectory that allows for a controlled re-entry into the Earth’s atmosphere, usually over the Pacific Ocean to minimize risks to people and property. Given the international nature of the ISS, close coordination with ISS partners, including Roscosmos (the Russian space agency) and other international partners, will naturally be essential to plan the deorbit in a safe and coordinated manner. Once the preparations are complete, the execution phase of the deorbit can begin. The SpaceX deorbit vehicle, attached to a specific section of the ISS, will release itself with extreme precision to avoid any damage to the remaining structures. It will then use its engines to begin gradually reduce its altitude. As the structure descends into the atmosphere, friction with the air will cause a progressive deceleration. This phase will allow the controlled disintegration sections of the ISS. Meanwhile, sensors on board the deorbit vehicle would monitor the trajectory and temperature in real time to ensure that reentry proceeds as planned. After the deorbit, SpaceX and NASA will conduct a thorough assessment to verify that all sections of the ISS have been successfully deorbited and that debris has been safely removed.