The International Space Station (ISS) is a large spacecraft that orbits the Earth, and in addition to being a unique scientific laboratory, in whose construction several nations worked together, it also serves as a home where crews of both astronauts and cosmonauts live. .
Made from parts assembled directly in space by astronauts, it orbits the Earth at an average altitude of around 402 kilometers, and travels at 28,163 kilometers / hour (km / h), which means that it orbits the Earth completely every 90- 92 minutes , and allows its crew to enjoy between 15 to 16 sunrises each day.
Today NASA is using it to learn more about life and working in space, offering useful lessons that will allow humans to be sent into space at even farther distances. In fact, it includes laboratory modules from the United States, Russia, Europe, and Japan.
The ISS considered the largest spacecraft ever built , in addition to having had a cost of more than 150 billion dollars, the amount of which was contributed by a total of 16 countries.
But what is its actual size? The dimensions of the facility are around 109 meters by 73 meters , slightly larger than a football field. It would have the volume of a five-room house or two Boeing 747s.
In addition, it weighs around 450 tons, the equivalent of 450 times the weight of a mid-size car. It is capable of supporting a crew of six, plus visitors.
Some curiosities to keep in mind
In addition to the laboratories where astronauts conduct scientific research, the ISS also has many other parts. For example, the first Russian modules included the basic systems essential for the proper functioning of the space station, and provided living areas for the crew members.
We can also mention the existence of modules known as “nodes”, which help to connect different parts of the station with each other. While it has a series of solar panels that are responsible for collecting solar energy to provide electrical energy .
And what happened to the robotic arms mounted outside the space station that were used to help build it? After the construction process is complete, they are useful for moving astronauts when they go on spacewalks in the open air.
In 2001 Dennis Anthony Tito became the first space tourist in history , after making a trip to the International Space Station.
