NASA and Roscosmos have officially extended their agreement on cross-flights to the International Space Station. The decision aims to ensure the continued safe operation of the orbital laboratory and maintain a consistent human presence in space.
The partnership allows for crew members to travel on both American spacecraft and Russian Soyuz vehicles. This arrangement ensures that astronauts and cosmonauts are prepared for critical maintenance tasks and spacewalks, regardless of the launch vehicle used.
The agreement is designed to mitigate risks, including potential spacecraft malfunctions, medical emergencies, or unforeseen incidents requiring an early return to Earth. The program covers comprehensive mission support, including pre-flight training, flight control, and search-and-rescue operations.
The collaboration operates on a non-monetary basis, with no financial settlements between the agencies. According to Roscosmos head Dmitry Bakanov, the program has been extended until 2030 at the request of the United States.
