Tag

Modules

All articles tagged with #modules

space-exploration2 years ago•6 min saved

From Spacelab to Gateway: 40 Years of International Cooperation in Space

ESA's Spacelab module, which launched 40 years ago, marked the beginning of Europe's involvement in crewed modules for space exploration. Since then, Europe has contributed various modules to the International Space Station (ISS) and is currently working on modules for the Gateway station that will orbit the Moon. The modules are made using advanced welding techniques and are designed to be smaller yet stronger than previous modules. The I-Hab module, part of the Gateway station, is being tested for compatibility with other modules and will serve as living quarters for crews of four for up to 30 days at a time. Europe's module development is expected to continue with plans for lunar surface modules for a future Moon base.

via European Space Agency|

#esa #gateway #lunar-gateway

space2 years ago•3 min saved

China's Ambitious Expansion of Tiangong Space Station with New Modules and Co-orbiting Craft

China plans to expand its Tiangong space station from three to six modules in the coming years, with a multi-functional expansion module with six docking ports set to be launched first. The expanded station would be just over a third of the mass of the International Space Station (ISS). China is also developing inflatable modules for potential habitats and preliminary verification for crewed lunar exploration. Additionally, a co-orbiting space telescope named Xuntian is planned to be launched in 2024, and more spacecraft are expected to fly co-orbitally with the Chinese space station. The expansion of Tiangong reflects China's increasing resources for the space sector and its ambitious plans for space exploration, including sending astronauts to the moon and constructing an International Lunar Research Station.

via SpaceNews|

#china #co-orbiting-spacecraft #modules