NASA is currently in the process of developing a plan to replace the International Space Station (ISS), as the agency faces a critical timeline with the ISS expected to reach the end of its operational life around 2030. This transition is essential for maintaining a human presence in low-Earth orbit, which is increasingly important as NASA shifts its focus toward lunar exploration through the Artemis Program. The agency is set to finalize its strategy for low-Earth orbit operations in the coming months and will soon award contracts to private companies to create commercial space stations. Pam Melroy, NASA's deputy administrator, emphasized the importance of continuing research in microgravity, which is vital for future missions to Mars and beyond. The agency has made significant strides in maximizing the scientific potential of the ISS, particularly in understanding the long-term health impacts of space travel and improving life support systems. NASA's draft "Microgravity Strategy" aims to outline its research and technology development goals for the 2030s and beyond, which will be crucial for the next phase of its commercial space station program. However, the path forward is fraught with challenges. NASA previously awarded contracts to several companies, including Blue Origin, Nanoracks, Northrop Grumman, and Axiom Space, to develop commercial space stations. Yet, many of these companies have encountered financial difficulties and delays, raising concerns about their ability to deliver viable solutions. The upcoming request for proposals from NASA will be pivotal in determining the future of these commercial ventures, as the agency seeks to foster competition while ensuring that its requirements are met. Funding for the Commercial LEO Destinations (CLD) program has been inconsistent, with initial years seeing minimal allocations. However, as the reality of the ISS's impending retirement has set in, Congress has become more supportive of funding the program. Despite this, there are lingering doubts about NASA's commitment to maintaining a presence in low-Earth orbit, especially in light of geopolitical considerations and competition from other nations, particularly China. The potential for a gap in human presence in low-Earth orbit is a concern, with some experts suggesting that it may not be catastrophic if it occurs. However, the uncertainty surrounding the future of commercial space stations complicates fundraising efforts for private operators, who need assurance of demand from NASA. The viability of the CLD program hinges on whether there is sufficient market demand beyond government astronauts, as the lack of a clear commercial application for human activity in space remains a significant hurdle. Ultimately, for NASA to successfully transition to a new era of commercial space stations, it must provide robust support to private companies, recognizing the complexity and cost associated with developing safe and functional habitats in space. The urgency of this situation cannot be overstated, as the clock is ticking toward the end of the ISS's operational life, and the future of human activity in low-Earth orbit hangs in the balance.