Isaacman Breaks with Musk on De-Orbiting the ISS: ‘We Shouldn’t Shut It Down Yet’

During his Senate confirmation hearing, Jared Isaacman, nominee for NASA Administrator, made a striking statement: the International Space Station (ISS) should remain operational beyond its expected retirement.

In doing so, Isaacman distanced himself from Elon Musk’s push for early deorbiting, signaling a sharp philosophical divide within the commercial space sector. As private space stations gain momentum, Isaacman’s stance reinforces NASA’s role in preserving international collaboration and scientific research aboard the ISS – at least for now.

Why Isaacman Wants to Keep the ISS Alive

“I don’t think it’s the right time to shut it down,” Isaacman said, responding to a question about the future of the station. “It’s not just about infrastructure – it’s about international leadership.”

The remark subtly distances the NASA administrator nominee from Musk’s long-standing vision of phasing out the ISS in favor of new, commercial low-Earth orbit stations, particularly those being developed by SpaceX’s competitors. The ISS, which has been continuously inhabited since 2000, was originally expected to be retired by 2030. But Isaacman’s comments suggest a desire to reevaluate that timeline.

For critics of commercial-only space strategies, this signals a much-needed pause. “It’s refreshing to hear someone acknowledge that the ISS is still a pillar of U.S. leadership in orbit,” said one Senate aide.

Musk’s vision of a quick ISS shutdown, followed by private orbital platforms, has drawn attention for its efficiency, but also criticism for its lack of international cooperation. Isaacman’s call to preserve the ISS longer hints at a broader diplomatic and scientific strategy.

“Ideally, we transition off the ISS with no gap,” Isaacman added. “We need to walk before we run.”

Whether this cautious approach holds after his confirmation remains to be seen – but for now, Isaacman is making it clear: America’s orbital outpost isn’t going anywhere just yet.

Based on The Washington Post coverage.