Keeping The ISS In Orbit

[L5 Vision]

Yes, ISS is in a vacuum, which is very good for preservation, however it is also subject to cosmic radiation that we don't have on Earth's surface due to our atmosphere overhead. The cosmic radiation degrades everything, metals, insulation, semiconductors, plastics. Failures will occur without warning and can have catastrophic results. There is no room for taking chances in outer space. No one wants to champion a dead horse that might go on to kill people. Let them decommission it according to the schedule of the people who pay for it. And they will not give or sell it to anyone. Too much liability.

Sounds like talking points for the contractors building the new parts at astronomical expenses

 

[billslugg]

Sounds like talking points for the contractors building the new parts at astronomical expenses

Yes, you are correct, it could be. It could also be the truth.

 

[L5 Vision]

Yes, you are correct, it could be. It could also be the truth.

Yup you got me there. Facts as facts, i just wonder now who benefits by getting the ISS de-orbited? With the Billions invested in building and maintaining the old rust bucket as the ISS is now billed, why can't the best and brightest among us spend a few Million US to really study if there is a useful afterlife for the ISS? Will we be kicking our selves for not at least thinking about recycling half a million kilos of somewhat useful human habitat at the dawn of human interplanetary history?

 

[billslugg]

They already studied it. The risk of killing someone is on everyone's mind, no one wants to sign up. Everyone is running away from the possibility as fast as they can. The current air leak fiasco is exhibit #1. There is not a single dollar available to revive an ailing horse. It's dead, Jim.