This transition raises important questions about contract allocation, peaceful coexistence, and whether scientific or commercial interests will take precedence, though current frameworks aim to ensure collaboration and peace in space.

As the International Space Station (ISS), which has been a hub for scientific research and international cooperation since 1998, prepares to decommission by 2030 and re-enter Earth's atmosphere over the Pacific, efforts are underway to transition to new space habitats.

NASA is shifting its focus from the ISS to commercial space stations through its Commercial LEO Destination program, allowing private companies to own and operate their stations in space under NASA's leasing agreements.

The ISS has played a pivotal role in fostering international collaboration, involving agencies from the US, Russia, Europe, Japan, and Canada, and has served as a cornerstone for space research for over 25 years.

Emerging space stations like Vast Space's Haven-1, China's Tiangong Space Station, and India's upcoming station planned for 2025 exemplify efforts to create permanent habitats and international research centers in space.

Alongside these developments, NASA and private companies are designing sustainable space habitats that could evolve into space cities, incorporating features such as microgravity agriculture and ecosystems to support long-term human habitation.

While the decommissioning of the ISS marks the end of an era, it also signals the beginning of a new chapter focused on establishing space cities for collaboration, research, and commercial ventures beyond Earth's orbit.