Jeff Bezos is set to launch a shiny new space station to replace the International Space Station after Elon Musk helps destroy it.

After 32 years of service, the ISS will be brought crashing down to Earth in 2031 at the end of its operational life.

The largest single structure we’ve ever put in space, it’s allowed scientists to conduct ground-breaking experiments in microgravity.

And, in what sounds like the mission of his dreams, Elon Musk’s SpaceX has won a $843 million NASA contract to help bring down the ISS.

The ground-breaking research facility is set to be replaced, though – and this is where Jeff Bezos comes in.

The International Space Station will no longer exist after 2030 (NASA via Getty Images)

While China already has its Tiangong space station in space, multi-billionaire Bezos is set to launch the first-ever commercially-owned and operated space station in low-Earth orbit.

What is Orbital Reef?

Bezos’ space company, Blue Origin, was awarded $130 million by NASA to develop Orbital Reef, a 8,200 cubic foot station almost as big as the ISS.

It will allow the ground-breaking research carried out on the ISS to continue – with some added extras.

In partnership with Sierra Space – as well as, unsurprisingly, Amazon, Boeing, and others – it will offer commercial space activities and act as a space tourism hub.

The station will only be able to support 10 people initially, but modules will be added to support further operations.

How the Orbital Reef is expected to look from the inside (Blue Origin)

These include science modules, with support for microgravity research, development, and manufacturing.

Meanwhile, Blue Origin described the station on its website: “Think spacious modules with large windows to view Earth… while experiencing the thrill of weightlessness in complete comfort.

“Distinct quarters will be designed for personal and business use, and large hatches create a safe and inspiring environment.”

It continued: “We aim to provide a truly extraordinary experience, whether you are in orbit for research, logistics, tourism, or other applications.”

Amazon is set to sort logistics and supply chain management, while Sierra Space will provide Large Integrated Flexible Environment (LIFE) modules, node modules, and a runway-landing Dream Chaser spaceplane for crew and cargo transportation.

Artist’s impression of Orbital Reef’s interior (Hassell Studio)

A Boeing Starliner crew spacecraft will also help transport personnel, while the company will supply science modules, space station operations and maintenance.

Orbital Reef is projected to launch in 2027 and will reportedly cost upwards of $100 billion in total.

It’s due to be fully operational by 2030, just before the ISS is brought to its end.