What Will Replace the International Space Station in 2024?

The International Space Station (ISS) has been a significant component of the global space community since its launch in 1998. However, with the ISS set to retire in 2024, the question remains: what will come next?

No Plans to Replace the ISS?

According to the current information available, there is no plan to replace the ISS. Instead, the station is likely to either be sold to a commercial company for potential private use, or it may be turned over to our allies for continued operation and maintenance. These allies include the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA), the European Space Agency (ESA), and the Russian Space Agency.

Potential Successors to the ISS

Despite the lack of a formal replacement for the ISS, there are several plans and concepts being considered for future space operations. The primary successor to the ISS is expected to be the Cislunar Station or more recently renamed LOP-G (Lunar Orbit Platform-Gateway), previously known as the DSG (Deep Space Gateway).

The Cislunar Station: Gateway to New Frontiers

The LOP-G, a crucial component of NASA's Artemis program, is designed to serve as a stepping stone for deep space exploration. With a more ambitious focus on lunar exploration, the LOP-G aims to support future manned missions, research activities, and the development of critical technologies.

The Future Path of Space Exploration

Following the operational phase of the LOP-G, the space community envisions a series of missions and projects that will further advance human space exploration:

Manned Moon Missions: The LOP-G will act as a base for regular moon landings to conduct scientific research and establish infrastructure on the lunar surface. Satellites and Probes: Further development and deployment of satellites and probes will enhance our understanding of space and the solar system. Mars Missions: With the LOP-G serving as a critical infrastructure, detailed plans are being laid out for manned missions to Mars, potentially establishing a human presence on the red planet. Cycler Stations: These reusable space vehicles will travel between Earth and other planets, enabling regular transit and potentially serving as waystations for future missions.

Conclusion

The retirement of the ISS marks the beginning of a new era in space exploration. With the LOP-G and the broader strategy of deep space exploration, the global space community is stepping up to the challenge of pushing the boundaries of human knowledge and presence in space.