The International Space Station (ISS) marked its 25th anniversary on December 6, 2023. The milestone was celebrated with a live conversation between the Expedition 70 crew and NASA leaders, which was streamed on various platforms including NASA's website and YouTube. The ISS, a symbol of international cooperation, was first assembled on December 6, 1998, when the US-built Unity node was connected to the Russian Zarya module.
Over the past quarter-century, the ISS has been home to astronauts from 21 countries and has been continuously inhabited for 23 years. The station has hosted 273 occupants, including an increasing number of astronauts from countries outside the original partnership, thanks to commercial programs. The ISS is operated by five partner agencies, demonstrating the strength and resilience of the international partnership.
The ISS has facilitated over 3,300 research and educational investigations from 108 countries and areas. These investigations have covered a wide range of topics, including aging, mental health, cognition, and ongoing cargo operations. The station's contributions extend beyond scientific research, playing a crucial role in preparing NASA for future human exploration of Mars and contributing to future commercial destinations in low-Earth orbit.
Plans are underway to operate the ISS until at least 2030, ensuring its continued role in international space exploration and research. The 25th anniversary of the ISS not only marks a significant milestone in space exploration but also underscores the importance of international cooperation in advancing our understanding of the universe.