The Future of Low Earth Orbit: From the ISS to Commercial Platforms

The House Science, Space, and Technology Committee held a hearing on March 26, 2026, titled "The Future of Low Earth Orbit: From the ISS to Commercial Platforms." The discussion focused on NASA's plans to transition from the aging International Space Station (ISS) to commercially operated low Earth orbit (LEO) platforms. Key procurement topics included NASA's upcoming requests for information (RFIs) and requests for proposals (RFPs) for commercial crew transportation and destination services, as well as the agency's consideration of a new strategy involving a government-owned core module that would dock with the ISS and support commercial modules. Witnesses highlighted concerns about the lack of a comprehensive and executable transition strategy, the risk of a gap in U.S. human spaceflight presence in LEO, and the need for clear acquisition strategies to ensure safety and accountability. Industry representatives emphasized the importance of procurement certainty to attract private investment, recommended indemnification policies similar to those used in commercial launch, and noted the growing commercial interest and capital investment in LEO platforms. Budgetary considerations were discussed, including the costs of ISS operations and transportation, and the potential for cost savings through commercial partnerships. The hearing underscored the need for Congress to provide funding to fully utilize the ISS through its end of life and to support a stable transition to commercial LEO destinations.