Axiom Space has revised its space station assembly sequence to detach its modules from the International Space Station (ISS) as early as 2028. This change comes as NASA plans for the ISS's eventual retirement, with a focus on accommodating a deorbit module by 2029. Axiom's new plan involves attaching the Payload Power Thermal Module (AxPPTM) first, followed by the Habitat 1 (AxH1) module, and then additional modules.
Axiom Space has shuffled the assembly sequence of its space station to remove any dependence it would have on the International Space Station by as soon as 2028.
Upon hearing the news Axiom was revising the assembly sequence, a space agency source mused,"The end of the ISS could be closer than anyone thinks."to have a deorbit module for the ISS ready by 2029, and the current plan calls for the outpost to be sent back to Earth in 2030. Russia, however, has yet to formally commit to keeping the station going past 2028.
The AxPPTM structure will be built by Thales Alenia Space in Turin, Italy, and sent to Houston no earlier than fall 2025 for internal fit-out by Axiom. Thales plans to use parts from AxH1 and AxH2 to speed construction. "Our ongoing assessment of the assembly sequence revealed opportunities for flexibility and enhancements. With the International Space Station needing to protect for the ability to accommodate a deorbit vehicle on station, we were able to accelerate this work to support the program's requirements."
Axiom Space International Space Station ISS Space Station Retirement Deorbit Module
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