NASA Provides Update on Space Station Leak

NASA and Roscosmos have monitored cracks in the PrK transfer tunnel of the Zvezda service module on the International Space Station since 2019. The cracks have led to small atmosphere leaks. The agencies have worked together to identify the root cause while Roscosmos applies temporary and permanent sealants as mitigation measures. Roscosmos noted an increase in the leak rate to two pounds per day during Progress 95 spacecraft cargo operations the week of June 1. The agency also identified new suspected leak areas in the PrK. Roscosmos decided to begin more extensive inspection and structural repair work Friday morning that involved cutting a bracket to access a possible leak source. The method carried potential elevated risk to the structure. NASA directed the four SpaceX Crew-12 members and astronaut Chris Williams to take a safe haven posture inside the SpaceX Dragon spacecraft. Williams had flown to the station aboard the Soyuz MS-28 spacecraft. Roscosmos later paused the repair work Friday morning in favor of additional measurements and data assessments. The assessments included inspections of suspected areas and reviews of areas where sealant had been applied previously. NASA supported the decision and the crew ended the safe haven period to resume normal operations. NASA said it will continue to work with Roscosmos and other international partners to assess and resolve the matter.