ISS Zvezda Module Leak Returns, Reviving Catastrophic-Failure Risk on Aging Station Until 2032
Updated
Updated · Boing Boing · May 25
ISS Zvezda Module Leak Returns, Reviving Catastrophic-Failure Risk on Aging Station Until 2032
3 articles · Updated · Boing Boing · May 25
NASA and Roscosmos have confirmed a recurring air leak in the ISS's Russian Zvezda service module after late-2025 readings had suggested the problem was fixed.
The leak traces to the tunnel linking Zvezda to the rest of the station, where agencies have hunted the source since 2019 and applied multiple patches that failed to hold.
NASA has told the crew to continue normal operations for now, but internal assessments reportedly rate the Russian leaks a 5 for both likelihood and consequence on the agency's 5x5 risk matrix.
That rating reflects concern that a slow hull leak could escalate into a decompression event or catastrophic failure aboard the aging station.
The setback adds pressure to keep the ISS safe through its planned 2032 end date, when commercial stations are expected to begin taking over.
After seven years, why can't NASA and Roscosmos agree on the severity of the station's potentially fatal structural cracks?
With a 'catastrophic' risk rating, what is the undisclosed evacuation plan for the ISS crew if the station's hull suddenly fails?
As the ISS falters, can private space stations launch in time to prevent China from dominating low Earth orbit?