Completion of the International Space
Station
 |
| Credit: NASA |
The International Space Station is by far the largest man-made
structure ever put into orbit: 110m (360 ft) across, with a mass of 345,000 kg
and a living volume of 1,000 cubic metres. It is maintained in a nearly
circular orbit with a minimum mean altitude of 330 km (205 mi) and a maximum of
410 km (255 mi). It travels at an average speed of 27,724 kilometres (17,227
mi) per hour, completing 15 orbits per day. Primary fields of research on board
the vessel include human research, space medicine, life sciences, physical
sciences, astronomy and meteorology. The station had been scheduled for
completion in 2012. However, installation of the final two components, the
Russian multipurpose laboratory module Nauka and the European Robotic Arm were
delayed. Once built, the ISS remains in operation until 2028.
Post a Comment