What is the International Space Station? Fascinating facts you should know

First Published Aug 23, 2024, 10:29 AM IST

Today, India is celebrating its first National Space Day (August 23, 2024). When talking about space, many questions often arise about the International Space Station (ISS). Here’s a look at all the key details you should know about it.

What is the International Space Station?

The International Space Station, a joint venture among various countries, stands as the largest man-made structure in space. Its main assembly took place from 1998 to 2011. For 25 years, the ISS has been orbiting Earth, and over 270 astronauts have visited it to date.

The ISS is a collaborative project involving Europe, the United States, Russia, Canada, and Japan, and is not under the ownership of any one nation. All these nations collaborate in its operation. NASA, the US space agency, allocates approximately $3 billion annually for its maintenance and operations.

How long will the International Space Station continue to operate?

NASA aims to keep it running until 2030. Russia has declared its plan to exit the ISS program after 2024 in order to concentrate on creating its own space station, which is expected to be finished by 2028. The status of the ISS operations post-Russia's departure remains undecided.

The International Space Station is 356 feet long and weighs 419,725 kg, with solar panels covering an area of one acre. It offers 13,696 cubic feet of habitable space for its crew members. The station includes seven sleeping quarters, two bathrooms, a gym, and a cupola, which provides a 360-degree view of Earth.

The ISS orbits Earth at an altitude ranging from 370 to 460 km. It continuously falls towards Earth due to atmospheric friction. To counteract this and maintain its orbit, its height is periodically adjusted by firing rocket engines. Without these adjustments, the station would gradually descend.

The space station functions as a laboratory in orbit, where astronauts conduct a wide range of scientific experiments. They are also responsible for maintaining and repairing the ISS. In addition to their work, astronauts spend about two hours daily on exercise and personal care. They occasionally perform spacewalks as well. To date, the ISS has supported over 3,600 researchers in conducting more than 2,500 experiments.