"NASA Safety Panel Raises Concerns Over Risks During ISS Transition"

NASA's Aerospace Safety Advisory Panel has expressed concerns about the agency's plans to transition from the International Space Station (ISS) to commercial space stations, citing funding for an ISS deorbit vehicle as a key issue. The panel recommended that NASA develop a comprehensive understanding of the resources and timelines required for the transition, including specific metrics and deadlines for commercial station development. The panel is concerned about the tight schedule for developing commercial stations and the lack of a clear business case, which could pose programmatic and safety risks. Budget concerns also loom over the development of commercial space stations and the funding of the deorbit vehicle, with potential cuts and delays posing challenges. The panel emphasized the need for adequate funding to ensure the safe disposal of the ISS and urged NASA to make critical decisions to address potential budget shortfalls.