NASA will launch the first upgrades to the International Space Station's (ISS) solar arrays this year, ensuring reliable power for operations at least through 2028.
The ISS, like any long-duration spacecraft, is showing its age after decades in orbit. NASA invests approximately $4 billion annually in maintenance. As the agency eyes deeper space exploration, it must prioritize resources—leading to plans for a gradual transition away from the station.
Officially, crewed flights to the ISS are slated to continue until 2024. However, NASA and primary contractor Boeing aim to extend operations to at least 2028, potentially longer. Afterward, the station could transition to private operators, though details remain uncertain.
To support this, NASA plans to replace much of the solar panels installed via space shuttle missions from 2000 to 2009, which currently power the station.
The first pair of new panels will arrive via a SpaceX Crew Dragon capsule this year, per SpaceNews. Two additional pairs will follow on future cargo missions, with dates TBD. Ultimately, NASA targets replacing six of the eight existing solar array segments.
The upgrades leverage the station's current power management systems to minimize new hardware. Each new segment requires two spacewalks by astronauts.
Specifically, the new Roll-Out Solar Arrays (ROSAs) will mount atop the originals, partially covering them while delivering greater efficiency—and net more power. Post-upgrade, the system will generate 215 kilowatts, up from 160 kilowatts today.
Meanwhile, China's Tiangong space station is poised to succeed the ISS. Featuring three modules, it will host taikonauts for scientific research and deep-space preparations.
The central module, serving as primary living quarters, launches next spring. China National Space Administration schedules 11 launches to complete construction in 2022.
