NASA strategy for human presence continues in low Earth orbit

NASA has finalized its strategy to maintain a continuous human presence in low-Earth orbit, shaping a sustainable future for microgravity research, technology and space exploration. With the next retirement of the International Space Station scheduled for 2030, the agency has established key goals to ensure the United States continues to lead in space exploration. The strategy, called the “Low Earth Orbit Microgravity Strategy”, was developed through consultations with industry, academia and international partners.

After reviewing more than 1,800 comments and hosting two workshops, the agency made significant changes to the goals to better align them with the needs of its partners. The final framework includes 13 objectives and 44 specific objectives, covering key areas such as commercial infrastructure, operations, science, and public engagement.

“As we approach retirement of the International Space Station in 2030, these goals represent a critical step in solidifying U.S. leadership in space,” said Pam Melroy, NASA Deputy Administrator. “Our consultation with industry, academia and international partners has helped refine a visionary roadmap for our future in low Earth orbit, which will be enabled by a continued human presence. Together, we are ensuring the benefits of space exploration continue to grow – advancing science, innovation and opportunity for all, as we prepare for humanity’s next great leap in exploring the Moon, Mars and beyond.”

The microgravitational environment of low Earth orbit offers an accessible and affordable testing ground for technologies and research necessary for human missions in the solar system. The objectives established will allow us to continue important human research, test future exploration systems and maintain the critical skills necessary to operate in microgravity.

“These finalized goals represent a clear path as NASA transitions from the International Space Station to a new era of commercial space stations,” said Robyn Gatens, director of the International Space Station and acting director of commercial spaceflight. “Low Earth orbit will remain a hub for scientific discovery, technological advancement and international cooperation, while making strategic investments in a commercial space ecosystem that benefits not only NASA, but the entire space community.”

“Collaboration and consultation remain a cornerstone of our low Earth orbit strategy,” he said John Keefe, director of interagency strategic integration at NASA. “The goals we have established will help NASA develop a work plan that ensures NASA is positioned to meet current and future needs and prioritizes the development of critical capabilities for low Earth orbit.”