The International Space Station
The International Space Station (ISS) is a habitable artificial satellite that orbits Earth. It is the largest human-made structure in space and is a joint project between five space agencies: NASA (United States), Roscosmos (Russia), JAXA (Japan), ESA (Europe), and CSA (Canada).
The ISS serves as a unique scientific laboratory where astronauts conduct experiments and research in various fields such as biology, physics, astronomy, and meteorology. It is also a symbol of international cooperation in space exploration and a stepping stone for future missions to the Moon and beyond. The ISS orbits Earth at an altitude of approximately 408 kilometers (253 miles) and travels at a speed of about 28,000 kilometers (17,500 miles) per hour, completing an orbit around the Earth every 90 minutes. The ISS has been continuously occupied since November 2000, and has hosted over 240 astronauts from 19 different countries.
Recommended Resources
- EESA for Kids: International Space Station (Website Link)
- NASA: More to explore about the International Space Station (Website Link)
World-Explorer.Online 