Georgian crisis to affect Russia-U.S. cooperation in space?
Tensions between Moscow and Washington are reaching as far as space. In 2010 NASA is due to retire the shuttle fleet that ferries U.S. astronauts to the International Space Station, but replacements won't be available until at least four years later.

The plan was for Russia to step in with its Soyuz spacecraft, but analysts say Congress may not approve the deal because of Russia's response to the Georgian conflict.

"It's a very tough spot for NASA because they really are not sure which way they will go. And no one really knows until the new president comes to office," said George T. Whitesides, Executive Director of the National Space Society.
...NASA is now looking to extend the shuttle programme beyond 2010, which is a potentially risky move."Most people acknowledge the space shuttle is an old vehicle. It's been flying since 1981 and many of its parts are getting to the point where they need to be refurbished. So, with each flight, the risks are higher," Whitesides added.

...But whatever U.S. Congress decides, NASA is in a lose-lose situation, as it will probably have to put politics before the safety of America's astronauts or the future of its space programme.