Astronauts on the International Space Station (ISS) have been instructed to prepare for an urgent evacuation due to increasing safety concerns.

NASA and Roscosmos have identified 50 “areas of concern,” including cracks and leaks, with one significant oxygen leak in the Russian service module dating back to 2019.

A recent NASA report classified the situation as a “top safety risk,” rating it five out of five.

While temporary patches can be applied, more severe leaks could force astronauts to seal off sections of the station, resulting in the loss of a critical docking port.

NASA is also monitoring the threat from space debris, which has previously forced astronauts to take cover and has caused damage that required extensive repairs, The Sun has reported.

To enhance safety, NASA has coordinated with Roscosmos to limit access to the Russian module during evenings, ensuring that astronauts remain close to their escape vehicles.

Written by B.C. Begley