NASA working on developing a spacecraft capable of manoeuvring the ISS; Here is why

NASA is reportedly working on developing a craft capable of maeuvring  International Station (ISS) toward a controlled disintegration in Earth's atmosphere when its time in orbit comes to an end. This plan was disclosed last Thursday (March 9) when White House me its 2024 federal budget request public. As part of NASA's $27.2 billion budget allocation, $180 million has been earmarked "to initiate development of a new tug" that can safely bring down ISS over open ocean after it completes its operational life in 2030, while also potentially undertaking or activities, as per a report from .com.

Furr details on this ambitious endeavor were unveiled yesterday, March 13 during a press conference held by NASA to discuss proposed budget, which needs congressional approval to be put into action. For instance, we w have an approximate cost estimate for deorbit tug, albeit a tentative one.

How much will it cost?

According to Kathy Lueders, NASA's chief of human flight, estimated cost for developing new tug capable of steering International Station (ISS) towards a safe deorbit was initially "a little short of about $1 billion." Lueders me this revelation during a press conference held by NASA on March 13 to discuss proposed budget for tug's development. ncy intends to issue a request for proposals (RFP) and is hopeful of obtaining more favorable pricing from proposals. However, earmarked $180 million in budget represents a promising starting point for developing critical capability, which is scheduled to be onboard by 2024.

new tug will complement existing deorbit capabilities of International Station's partners, which include ncies of United States, Russia, Europe, Cana, and Japan. At present, plan for bringing down ISS safely depends on engine burns carried out by robotic Progress cargo vehicles provided by Russia.