The Aerospace Safety Advisory Panel (ASAP) has stressed the urgent need for adequate funding to address the increasing risks associated with the ISS and to ensure a safe transition.

However, proposed budget cuts could severely hinder NASA's ability to manage the ISS and successfully develop the U.S. Deorbit Vehicle (USDV), compounding existing risks.

These budget cuts, proposed by the Trump administration, threaten the planned safe deorbiting of the ISS by 2030, raising alarms among experts.

In light of these concerns, SpaceX is developing the USDV to assist with the ISS's deorbit, and CEO Elon Musk has suggested an earlier timeline for this process.

An emergency deorbit of the ISS before the USDV is completed poses significant dangers, including potential debris fallout over populated areas, necessitating robust safety measures.

The International Space Station (ISS) is currently facing serious safety concerns due to structural cracks and air leaks that could jeopardize its operations.

NASA officials have indicated that the ISS has entered its 'riskiest period,' with multiple cracks and air leaks detected, including one identified using floating tea leaves.

Ongoing leaks in the Zvezda module’s vestibule remain a major issue, with U.S. and Russian experts still searching for solutions after years of investigation.

In response to these challenges, NASA and Roscosmos officials are scheduled to meet in Moscow to discuss the leaks and collaborate on risk mitigation strategies for the ISS.

Last year, NASA allocated $993 million for ISS operations and maintenance, along with $1.63 billion for crew and cargo transportation, but further funding issues could jeopardize safe operations as the station nears its end of life.