WASHINGTON, June 16, 2025
ISS Launch Delayed Again
NASA has pushed back the launch of Axiom Mission 4 to the International Space Station due to ongoing concerns about leaks.
- Axiom Mission 4 launch delayed to June 19 or later.
- Concerns center on leaks in the aging ISS.
- NASA and Roscosmos are working together on repairs.
Why is the Axiom Mission 4 launch delayed? NASA has postponed the launch of Axiom Mission 4 to the International Space Station (ISS), citing continued issues with leaks aboard the orbiting outpost. A new launch date is set for no earlier than June 19.
The ISS, a collaboration between multiple international space agencies, is showing its age. The Russian segment, in particular, has been experiencing problems. Small cracks have been discovered, leading to leaks and pressure drops. NASA has been working with Russia’s space agency, Roscosmos, to address these issues, including understanding a new pressure signature detected after recent repairs.
As of the weekend, NASA reported that the pressure had stabilized, which might indicate a successful repair. However, it’s also possible that the stabilization is due to air flowing into the transfer tunnel.
The nature of the recent repairs remains unclear. One source joked that “glue, duct tape, and hope” were involved. Discussions with Roscosmos are ongoing, with further updates expected.
European Space Agency astronaut Andreas Mogensen noted that in the worst-case scenario, the Zvezda hatch could be permanently sealed without significantly impacting ISS operations, “As long as Russia is willing to forego that docking port.”
The Crew Dragon for Axiom Mission 4 is scheduled to dock with the Harmony module, which was launched in 2007.
A 2024 report from the NASA Office of Inspector General highlighted the leak rate, noting that “NASA and Roscosmos have not reached an agreement on the point at which the leak rate is untenable.”
Elon Musk has also voiced concerns about the ISS, stating, “Some parts of it are simply getting too old and obviously that risk grows over time.” He suggested de-orbiting the ISS within two years.
The latest delay for Axiom Mission 4 follows SpaceX’s repair of a liquid oxygen leak. The company has since completed a wet dress rehearsal.
