Introduction

This is an exciting time for our space program.  The development of the International Space Station is one of the biggest collaborative efforts the world has ever experienced.  The International Space Station will enable people from all around the world to live and study in space over long periods of time.

The following links come from all over the World Wide Web and represent a variety of aspects related to the International Space Station. You will be able to answer the questions below after you journey to the International Space Station via the World Wide Web.  Also, feel free to use the Dictionary whenever you need to.

The purpose of this Web page is to give you a sampling of some of the aspects related to the International Space Station. Each of the questions will help you learn WHAT the ISS is, WHY it was created, WHO is considered a partner, WHEN it is scheduled to be completed, WHERE you can find the ISS, and HOW living on the ISS is possible.

The WHAT

Questions:

1. What are the major components of the ISS (International Space Station) and what are their functions?
2. What functions will the Canadian built robotic arm perform on the ISS (International Space Station)?

Questions:

1. How high above the earth does the ISS (International Space Station) orbit?  Fun fact...If you traveled by Space Station from Dallas, Texas to Paris, France, you would arrive in approximately 17 minutes!
2. Find out the following facts: size, weight, estimated cost, date of completion, assembly flights, time to orbit Earth, and speed.

The WHY

Questions:

1. What is the mission of the ISS (International Space Station)?
2. It is hoped that it will allow for advancements in three areas.  What are they?
3. List and describe three specific studies that will hopefully be carried out during future missions?

The WHO

http://www.discovery.com/stories/science/iss/i_whodoeswhat.html

http://www.pbs.org/spacestation/station/components.htm (don't forget to click on the diagram, too)

Questions:

1. Who are the seven major partners of the ISS (International Space Station)?
2. What countries make up the European Space Agency?
3. Name the part (or parts) of ISS that each partner is contributing and the function of that part (or parts)?

The WHEN

Questions:

1. What was the first component of the ISS (International Space Station), and when was it launched?
2. How many years will it take to complete the ISS (International Space Station)?  Hint......click on the "See how" link to the right of the page.
3. What is the last element, which will complete the ISS (International Space Station)?  Hint...click on the "check out" link to the right of the page.

The WHERE

Questions:

1. On what dates are ISS sightings possible from your city?

http://school.discovery.com/schooladventures/spacestation/basics/where.html

1. Look at the interactive globe on this page to find out where the ISS (International Space Station) is in the World right now!  What continent is it located over at this time?
2. Set a timer for 5 minutes.  Come back to this site and check to see where the ISS is now and record its location.

The HOW

http://spaceflight.nasa.gov/living/index.html

http://www.pbs.org/spacestation/station/living.htm

Questions:

1. Where do astronauts in space get water?
2. Do astronauts have a choice of what they eat in space?
3. How do astronauts cook food in space?
4. How do astronauts prepare food in space?
5. How do astronauts store food in space?
6. Name the five different food categories, describe, and give three examples.

1. How do you take a shower and use the restroom in space?
2. Why is it important to wear a space suit?

Space Sleep

1. Describe how crew members sleep on the Space Station.

Space Fun

1. What are five activities astronauts do for fun on the Space Station?
2. How do astronauts communicate with friends and family?

Conclusion

You have had the opportunity to explore some important aspects of the International Space Station.  You should now know WHAT the ISS is, WHY it was created, WHO is considered a partner, WHEN it is scheduled to be completed, WHERE you can find the ISS, and HOW living on the ISS is possible.  Are you ready to Blast Off?!?

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Credits

Created by Dana Bickley and Amber Samaniego on June 4, 2002 for NISD Tiftech training, updated on June 6, 2002.