International Space Station

The International Space Station (ISS) is a unique orbital laboratory that orbits the Earth at an altitude of approximately 400 km. It stands as a symbol of international cooperation in science, research, and space exploration. The project, which began in 1998, involves five space agencies.

The ISS is a modular station composed of dozens of interconnected segments.

The total length of the station is 72.8 meters, its width is 108.5 meters, and its height is 20 meters. The station completes 15.77 orbits around the Earth per day, travels at an average speed of 27,700 km/h, and can be easily seen with the naked eye.

The ISS has been operational since 2000 and has been continuously inhabited by astronauts. The primary goal of the station is to conduct scientific research in microgravity, particularly in the fields of biology, physics, medicine, and materials science.

Missions aboard the ISS allow scientists to study the effects of space on the human body, test new technologies, and prepare for future missions to the Moon and Mars. The station also serves as an educational platform to promote science among young people.

P.S. Image attribution: NASA, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons