Is Blue Origin poised to play a pivotal role in replacing the International Space Station?

Blue Origin is among several companies aiming to construct a commercial space station. However, it remains uncertain whether any of these projects will be completed before the International Space Station reaches the end of its operational life.

Blue Origin, owned by Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, plans to build a space station in hopes of replacing the aging International Space Station (ISS).

The Orbital Reef space station, developed in partnership by Blue Origin, Sierra Space, and Boeing, aims to be a versatile orbiting destination. Companies, governments, and space tourists will be able to send astronauts, experiments, and visitors to the station for various purposes. The station's capacity is designed for 10 astronauts, which is slightly smaller than the ISS. Typically, the ISS accommodates seven crew members, but has had as many as 13 at a time.

"We will expand access, lower the cost, and provide all the services and amenities needed to normalize space flight," said Blue Origin’s Brent Sherwood in a statement. "A vibrant business ecosystem will grow in low Earth orbit, generating new discoveries, new products, new entertainments, and global awareness."

Given the limited funding for the ageing International Space Station (ISS), which is currently funded until 2024 with a potential extension until 2028, there is a question of whether a private space station could serve as a viable replacement.