Satellite Spotlight: ISS — 25+ Years of Continuous Human Presence
The International Space Station (ISS) is a large, habitable satellite that orbits Earth, serving as a microgravity and space environment research laboratory. It is a joint project involving five participating space agencies: NASA, Roscosmos, JAXA, ESA, and CSA.
What is the International Space Station?
The International Space Station (ISS) is a large, habitable satellite that orbits Earth, serving as a microgravity and space environment research laboratory. It is a joint project involving five participating space agencies: NASA, Roscosmos, JAXA, ESA, and CSA. The ISS has been continuously occupied since November 2, 2000, marking over 25 years of human presence in space.
Mission and Purpose
The primary mission of the ISS is to conduct scientific research that cannot be performed on Earth. It provides a unique environment for experiments in biology, human biology, physics, astronomy, and meteorology. The ISS also plays a crucial role in international cooperation and serves as a testbed for technologies needed for future long-duration human and robotic exploration missions, including those to the Moon and Mars.
Orbital Characteristics
The ISS orbits Earth at an average altitude of approximately 420 kilometres, with an inclination of 51.6 degrees. It completes an orbit roughly every 90 minutes, travelling at a speed of about 28,000 kilometres per hour. The station's NORAD ID is 25544, and its orbit allows it to be visible from 95% of the inhabited land on Earth. Visible passes can be checked on the Orbital Radar pass predictor.
Significance and Legacy
The ISS is a testament to international collaboration and scientific advancement. It has hosted astronauts from 19 different countries and has been instrumental in fostering peaceful cooperation in space. The research conducted aboard the ISS has led to numerous scientific publications and advancements in fields such as medicine, materials science, and environmental science. Its legacy will continue to influence future space exploration missions.
Current Status
As of August 2026, the ISS is home to 11 astronauts from various countries, including the United States, Russia, and China. The station continues to operate smoothly, with regular resupply missions ensuring its functionality. The ISS is expected to remain operational until at least 2030, with discussions ongoing about its future role and potential successors. For more details, the ISS profile can be accessed in the Orbital Radar Satellite Library.
