26 Dec 2022 10:37

Roscosmos proposes that Russian govt extend ISS operation at least until 2028

MOSCOW. Dec 26 (Interfax) - Roscosmos has submitted documents regarding further operation of the Russian segment of the International Space Station (ISS) at least until 2028 to the Russian government, Roscosmos Executive Director for Manned Space Programs Sergei Krikalev said in an interview with Interfax.

"Documents necessary for approving further ISS operation have been submitted to the government. They will be considered and coordinated," Krikalev said.

Roscosmos proposes that operation of the ISS' Russian segment be extended until 2028 for now.

"For now, we are talking about 2028. Historically, extensions have been made for four years: we had an agreement until 2020, and now it is valid until 2024. We can extend it until 2028 and then make a decision depending on the situation and analysis of technical and program feasibility," Krikalev said.

Roscosmos head Yury Borisov said on December 21 that the state corporation had formally filed for continuing its activity onboard the ISS until 2028.

Russian Deputy Prime Minister, Industry and Trade Minister Denis Manturov said on October 24 that the government would probably extend the ISS agreement until 2028, based on the timeframe of the construction of the national space station.

According to him, Energia Corporation specialists did not find any technical problems that could prevent the operation of the ISS' Russian segment from being extended after 2024.

Krikalev said on October 4 the state corporation was hoping to receive permission from the Russian government next year to continue participation in the ISS project after 2024.

The current agreement on the ISS operation expires in 2024. Russia said earlier it was planning to leave the project after 2024, but did not specify the exact date.

Roscosmos head Yury Borisov said the exit from the ISS project should be synchronized with the start of construction of a new Russian space station.