NASA: US welcomes Russia’s willingness to cooperate in space – Sight

Washington welcomes Moscow’s desire to develop cooperation in the field of space exploration, said on Saturday, NASA spokesman David Weaver.

«We are pleased that the Federal Space Agency has expressed a desire to continue full use of the International Space Station until 2024 (which is in line with our plans), as well as interest in further international cooperation in the field of space exploration in the next period, “- said the representative of NASA, reports Tass.

At the same time it is not confirmed that after 10 years, his department will begin to create a new station with the Russian Space Agency.

«Today, our focus remains fully focused on the use of current scientific orbital laboratory and research that will be made in the course of just a space mission began astronaut Scott Kelly. It will last for a year and help us to develop a more long-term manned missions in space, “- said Weaver.

Kelly will carry an unprecedented watch on ISS length of 342 days with Kornienko. Padalka, who have repeatedly flew to the station should return to Earth in September, too, with a record – by the time he has behind him will be a total of 878 days of space. Currently championship in orbit – 803 days – Sergei Krikalev holds.

During the work on the ISS and the Kelly Kornienko take part in dozens of medical and biological experiments, including monitoring of the functioning of the main systems of human organism during such a long flight. In addition, US scientists a unique opportunity to compare the changes that occur in a year in the body of Scott Kelly, with changes in the remainder of the world his twin brother Mark. NASA hopes that the findings will provide valuable assistance in the preparation of manned missions to deep space, including Mars.

On Friday during a visit to Baikonur head of NASA, Charles Bolden between the American Space Agency and the Roscosmos signed an agreement to extend the operation of the ISS until 2024. Bolden announced that Roscosmos and NASA will prepare a “road map” program on flights to Mars and the Moon.