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Copernical Team
Russia says it is leaving the International Space Station program. What does that mean?
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Russia will withdraw from the International Space Station project after 2024 to focus on forming its own space station, the head of the Russian space agency said Tuesday.
The announcement, given by Roscosmos CEO Yuri Borisov, reflects the further disintegration of relations between the U.S. and Russia. The two nations have partnered with Japan, Canada and other European countries on the project for nearly 30 years.
Borisov said Russia will honor all commitments to its partners but will not waiver on the 2024 deadline. "I think we will have started work on the Russian space station by that time," he said.
Russian officials have not yet notified NASA of their plans, according to Robyn Gatens, director of the space station for NASA.
What is the International Space Station? What significance has it contributed to science? Here's what to know.
What is the International Space Station?
The International Space Station, or ISS, is a large spacecraft that orbits the earth and houses crews of astronauts and cosmonauts, according to NASA.
The station is the culmination of the work of several nations. It's not owned by any one nation; rather, it's a "co-operative program" between Europe, the U.S.
NASA Administrator Statement on Agency Authorization Bill
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Operation centres in tune for upcoming weather satellite
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The plan to unlock the biggest wealth through asteroid mining
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Small but Mighty on Sol 3545
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Sol 3544: Bye-Bye Bolivar
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NASA details plans to bring back Mars rock samples
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NASA's VIPER prototype motors through Moon-like obstacle course
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CAA launches consultation on UK space launch from Cornwall
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