international space station![click to hear](/images/speaker.jpg)
Complex made up of some 10 modules in orbit around Earth; built and assembled by 15 countries, it is used to conduct scientific and technological research on weightlessness.
mobile remote servicer ![click to hear](/images/speaker.jpg)
Base that supports the arm and allows it to move about the structure.
crew return vehicle ![click to hear](/images/speaker.jpg)
Vehicle used to bring the crew back to Earth in case of emergency.
remote manipulator system ![click to hear](/images/speaker.jpg)
This mechanical arm is used to lift heavy loads during the assembly of the station and to perform maintenance work.
Russian module ![click to hear](/images/speaker.jpg)
Generates the station’s electrical energy using photovoltaic cells.
photovoltaic arrays ![click to hear](/images/speaker.jpg)
Panels that supply power to the station by transforming the Sun’s light into electrical current.
U.S. habitation module ![click to hear](/images/speaker.jpg)
Designed to accommodate six persons; contains a kitchen, roomettes, a bathroom and first-aid equipment.
radiators ![click to hear](/images/speaker.jpg)
Corrugated panels ensuring heat evacuation from the station.
truss structure ![click to hear](/images/speaker.jpg)
Truss frame attached to the U.S. laboratory.
U.S. laboratory ![click to hear](/images/speaker.jpg)
Designed to carry out scientific activities, particularly in the life sciences and in physics.
remote manipulator system ![click to hear](/images/speaker.jpg)
Mechanical arm designed to conduct scientific experiments on the Japanese platform.
centrifuge module ![click to hear](/images/speaker.jpg)
Module used to create variable artificial gravity, making it possible to study the effect of gravity levels on living organisms.
European experiment module ![click to hear](/images/speaker.jpg)
Designed to conduct research in the life and materials sciences, in physics and in numerous other technologies.
mating adaptor ![click to hear](/images/speaker.jpg)
Connector on which the space shuttle orbiter docks during most of the station’s supply and assembly missions.
Japanese experiment module ![click to hear](/images/speaker.jpg)
Designed to conduct research in the life sciences and in the science of matter; also equipped with a platform for outside experiments.