On June 5, 2026, astronauts aboard the International Space Station (ISS) were temporarily ordered to shelter in the docked SpaceX Crew Dragon spacecraft due to a worsening air leak in the Russian segment of the station. This precautionary measure was taken while Russian cosmonauts worked to repair the leak in the Zvezda Service Module. ([apnews.com](https://apnews.com/article/ccc50acb3fbe2ab190dde3f1a7a26478?utm_source=openai))
**Background of the Air Leak**
The air leak, located in the PrK transfer tunnel connecting the Zvezda Service Module to a docking port, has been a known issue since 2019. Over the years, the leak rate has fluctuated, with recent measurements indicating an increase from one pound of air loss per day to two pounds. This escalation prompted NASA to take immediate action to ensure the safety of the crew. ([business-standard.com](https://www.business-standard.com/technology/tech-news/nasa-puts-iss-astronauts-on-evacuation-alert-after-worsening-air-leak-126060501202_1.html?utm_source=openai))
**NASA’s Precautionary Measures**
In response to the heightened risk, NASA instructed the five astronauts aboard the ISS—four from the SpaceX Crew-12 mission and one NASA astronaut—to board the Crew Dragon capsule and don their spacesuits. This protocol is standard procedure during potential emergencies, allowing for a swift evacuation if necessary. The astronauts remained in the capsule for approximately two hours while Russian cosmonauts assessed and attempted to repair the leak. ([apnews.com](https://apnews.com/article/ccc50acb3fbe2ab190dde3f1a7a26478?utm_source=openai))
**Repair Efforts and Collaboration**
Russian space agency Roscosmos initiated an extensive repair operation on the Zvezda Service Module following the discovery of the increased leak rate. NASA and Roscosmos have been collaborating to identify the underlying causes of the recurring structural issues on the ISS. The agencies are working together to develop a more permanent solution to prevent future leaks and ensure the station’s continued safety. ([apnews.com](https://apnews.com/article/ccc50acb3fbe2ab190dde3f1a7a26478?utm_source=openai))
**Historical Context**
The Zvezda Service Module has a history of structural issues, including cracks and previous leaks. These problems have been a concern for both NASA and Roscosmos, leading to ongoing monitoring and repair efforts. The current situation underscores the challenges of maintaining the aging ISS and highlights the importance of international cooperation in addressing these issues. ([arstechnica.com](https://arstechnica.com/space/2026/05/uh-oh-the-international-space-station-is-leaking-again/?utm_source=openai))
**Future Implications**
The incident has raised questions about the long-term viability of the ISS. NASA has been considering plans to deorbit the station by 2030, with discussions about replacing it with commercially produced modules. The ongoing repairs and investigations into the Zvezda Service Module’s structural integrity will play a crucial role in determining the station’s future. ([arstechnica.com](https://arstechnica.com/space/2026/05/uh-oh-the-international-space-station-is-leaking-again/?utm_source=openai))
As of now, the astronauts have returned to their regular duties aboard the ISS, and the situation remains under close observation. NASA and Roscosmos continue to collaborate to ensure the safety of the crew and the operational status of the International Space Station.
## Highlights:
– [Astronauts briefly take shelter during repair to fix leak on the International Space Station](https://apnews.com/article/ccc50acb3fbe2ab190dde3f1a7a26478?utm_source=openai), Published on Friday, June 05
– [Una fuga de aire en la Estación Espacial Internacional obliga a los astronautas a refugiarse en una nave durante dos horas](https://elpais.com/ciencia/2026-06-05/una-fuga-de-aire-en-la-estacion-espacial-internacional-obliga-a-los-astronautas-a-preparar-una-posible-evacuacion.html?utm_source=openai), Published on Friday, June 05
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