What is the International Space Station?
The International Space Station (ISS) is the largest and the most expensive spacecraft that is home to crews of astronauts. The ISS takes only 90 minutes to complete an orbit around the earth. Astronauts on the ISS see 16 sunrises and sunsets every 24 hours.
The United States of America, Russia, Japan, Canada, Brazil, and 11 European nations have worked together to build the ISS. The ISS is built like a large jigsaw puzzle. The first piece of the ISS went into space in 1998. It was called Zarya. The building of the ISS only finished in 2011.
What are the different sections of the ISS?
The ISS has many different sections. Large panels on each side of the ISS collect energy from the sun and turn it into electricity. The doors attached to the ISS allow astronauts to go on spacewalks. Robotic arms mounted outside help them perform repairs. Crews from other spacecraft can also visit the ISS and give them food, fuel, and other resources.
How do astronauts live on the ISS?
Astronauts have to take care of themselves in a different way because of the absence of gravity. They use waterless shampoos. While sleeping, they tie themselves so that they don’t float and bump into something. Water and juices are available in tightly sealed pouches with a straw. Earlier, space food was available to astronauts in the form of pastes in tubes. But today, they can refrigerate and use microwaves to cook whatever food they like. They also recycle air and water.
What research and experiments are conducted on the ISS?
The ISS has labs that allow astronauts to do experiments in the absence of gravity. These experiments have led to better treatment of diseases. Other experiments have helped scientists make stronger metals, cleaner water, etc.
