Space stations are artificial structures designed to carry out activities in outer space, and play a fundamental role in research and exploration of the universe. They are distinguished from traditional manned spacecraft in that they do not have propulsion systems or landing means, making them structures designed to remain in orbit for long periods of time.
One of the main functions of space stations is to serve as platforms for scientific research. On board, astronauts can study a wide range of phenomena that cannot be adequately analysed on Earth due to gravity. These investigations range from biology, where they observe how the human body reacts to microgravity over the long term, to particle physics experiments and astronomical observations.
The International Space Station (ISS)
The International Space Station (ISS) is currently the only operational space station in orbit. This gigantic structure, which began construction in 1998, is the result of international collaboration between 15 countries, including the United States, Russia, Japan, Canada and members of the European Space Agency. The ISS orbits the Earth at an altitude of approximately 400 kilometres and performs a variety of functions that make it a unique space laboratory.
ISS segments and technology: The ISS is made up of different segments or modules, mainly of Russian and American origin. These segments are connected to each other to form a larger structure that includes solar panels and thermal radiators. In addition, it has the well-known canadarm2, a robotic arm from Canada that facilitates tasks such as moving equipment and capturing spacecraft.
Impact on human biology: In space, human bodies face various adverse conditions, such as microgravity and radiation exposure. These conditions affect health in aspects such as bone density, blood circulation, and even vision. To counteract these effects, astronauts perform daily exercises and follow rigorous medical controls.
Utility of space stations
These platforms are not only essential for studying human biology in space, but also have applications for more advanced science. Experiments have been carried out on board the ISS that seek to understand the universe, such as NICE, which studies neutron stars, and the Alpha Magnetic Spectrometer (AMS), which attempts to catch and analyze cosmic rays.
Space stations are also vital for preparing for future long-duration space missions. For example, they help us understand how humans might live on Mars or other celestial bodies, overcoming the difficulties of a lack of gravity and prolonged exposure to hostile space conditions.
History of space stations
The concept of a space station has been around for a long time, and its evolution has been key to space exploration. A major milestone was the launch of the space station Skylab in 1973 by the United States. This station was the first space laboratory inhabited by astronauts, who carried out scientific experiments for 171 days in orbit. Skylab ended its mission in 1979 when it re-entered the Earth's atmosphere.
Another notable milestone in the history of space stations is the Russian space station Mir, which was in orbit for 15 years from 1986 to 2001. Mir was an impressive technical achievement, with interchangeable modules that allowed its size and capacity to be adjusted to accommodate different scientific experiments. During its time in space, it was home to astronauts from different countries.
Future of space stations
The future of space stations continues to evolve. Projects such as the space station Tiangong China’s spacecraft are already underway, with modules launched in 2021. In addition, private companies such as SpaceX and Blue Origin are exploring the idea of commercial space stations, which could open the door to a permanent human presence in outer space, not only for scientific research, but also for industrial manufacturing and space tourism.
Space stations will continue to be key to technological research and innovation, both in the fields of science and space exploration. Science conducted in space has direct applications in areas such as medicine, agriculture and climate change management on Earth.
Thanks to international collaboration and technological advances, space stations have expanded the frontiers of human knowledge about the universe and our place in it. As space-faring countries and companies move forward with the development of new stations, we are moving ever closer to a future in which humans will be able to live and work in space on a sustained basis.