On April 30th, 2020, NASA announced the final extension of their International Space Station (ISS) cargo delivery contracts. The contracts, which were originally set to expire in 2024, have now been extended through 2028. This extension will ensure that the ISS will continue to receive the necessary supplies and materials to support its operations.
The contracts are with two companies: Orbital ATK and SpaceX. Orbital ATK is responsible for delivering cargo to the ISS via their Cygnus spacecraft, while SpaceX will use their Dragon spacecraft for the same purpose. Both companies have been providing cargo delivery services to the ISS since 2012, and have made numerous successful deliveries over the years.
The extension of these contracts is an important step in ensuring the continued operation of the ISS. The station is a critical part of our exploration of space, and provides a unique platform for research and development. With the extension of these contracts, NASA will be able to continue to make use of the ISS for the next eight years.
The extension of these contracts also provides a boost to the commercial space industry. Both Orbital ATK and SpaceX are private companies that are heavily invested in the space industry. By extending their contracts, NASA is providing them with a steady stream of income that will help them continue to innovate and develop new technologies.
Overall, the extension of these contracts is a positive step forward for both NASA and the commercial space industry. It ensures that the ISS will continue to receive the necessary supplies and materials to support its operations, and provides a boost to the commercial space industry. With this extension, we can look forward to many more years of successful exploration and research on the ISS.
Source: Plato Data Intelligence: PlatoAiStream