Bezos' Ambitious Plan: A $100 Billion Space Station to Replace the ISS.

Jeff Bezos is set to lead the future of space exploration with the development of a new commercial space station, set to replace the International Space Station (ISS) after its planned deorbit in 2031. Meanwhile, Elon Musk’s SpaceX has secured a hefty $843 million NASA contract to assist in dismantling the ISS at the end of its operational life.  

After 32 years of groundbreaking science and research, the ISS—the largest single structure ever built in space—will be deorbited in 2031, marking the end of its historic service in advancing experiments in microgravity.  

Musk and SpaceX: The End of the ISS Era

SpaceX's $843 million contract with NASA underscores Musk’s growing influence on the future of space exploration. The company will play a key role in safely deorbiting the ISS, bringing its groundbreaking mission to an end.  

While this signals the close of one of space exploration's most impressive achievements, Jeff Bezos is stepping in with a vision for the future—through his company, Blue Origin.  

Introducing Orbital Reef: A New Vision for Commercial Space Operations  

Bezos’ Blue Origin has been awarded $130 million by NASA to build *Orbital Reef*, a commercial space station designed to continue scientific research while introducing a mix of commercial space activities and tourism.  

Orbital Reef will occupy low-Earth orbit with 8,200 cubic feet of space—nearly the same size as the ISS. Blue Origin is partnering with Sierra Space, Boeing, Amazon, and other collaborators to make the station a multi-purpose hub for research, business, and space tourism.  

The station will initially support up to 10 people, with additional modules planned to expand its operational capabilities. These modules will include facilities for microgravity research, development, and manufacturing.

Experience Weightlessness with Style 

According to Blue Origin, Orbital Reef will offer an unparalleled space experience:  

 “Think spacious modules with large windows to view Earth... while experiencing the thrill of weightlessness in complete comfort.”  

The station is intended to combine science, logistics, and tourism into one fully operational hub, with amenities and “distinct quarters designed for personal and business use.”  

The Boeing Starliner crew spacecraft will assist in transporting personnel to and from the station, while also providing modules and support for station maintenance and operations.  

When Will It Launch?  

Orbital Reef is expected to launch by 2027 and will be fully operational by 2030—just one year before the ISS concludes its mission. However, the entire project is projected to cost more than $100 billion, emphasizing the scale and ambition of this undertaking.  

With the ISS's planned deorbit and Musk’s SpaceX facilitating its end, Orbital Reef represents both a new era of space innovation and a symbol of private-sector investment shaping the future of space exploration.