# International Space Station

Part of the Space Exploration Merit Badge Digital Resource Guide: [Introduction & Overview](https://merit-badge.university/merit-badges/space-exploration/guide/index.md)

*6. Spacecraft Choices*

> **6b.** International Space Station

The International Space Station is both a spacecraft and a place to live. Its purpose is to support long-term human life in orbit while giving scientists a laboratory where they can study microgravity, Earth, technology, and the human body.

## Purpose

The ISS helps crews perform research that is hard or impossible to do on Earth. It also teaches engineers how to support people in space for months at a time, which matters for future missions to the Moon and Mars.

## Operation

The ISS circles Earth about once every 90 minutes. Crews arrive on spacecraft, dock, live aboard, perform experiments, exercise to stay healthy, maintain equipment, and eventually rotate home while a new crew takes over.

Because it is a station instead of a short-mission vehicle, its operation depends on constant teamwork: ground controllers, cargo deliveries, visiting spacecraft, maintenance schedules, and international coordination.

## Components to describe

**Major ISS systems** — These components help it work as a long-term orbiting outpost

- [ ] **Modules**: Pressurized rooms where crews live, work, and do science.
- [ ] **Solar arrays**: Large panels that collect sunlight for power.
- [ ] **Trusses and radiators**: Structures that support equipment and release extra heat.
- [ ] **Docking ports**: Places where visiting spacecraft connect.
- [ ] **Life-support systems**: Air, water recycling, and temperature control.
- [ ] **Robotic systems**: Arms and tools used for moving equipment and helping with station work.

[What is the International Space Station? (website)](https://www.nasa.gov/learning-resources/for-kids-and-students/what-is-the-international-space-station-grades-5-8/): A plain-language overview of what the ISS is, what it does, and why it matters.

[How to Spot the International Space Station (ISS) (website)](https://www.nasa.gov/spot-the-station/): Use NASA's tracker to spot the ISS overhead and connect this requirement to something you can actually see from Earth.

> **Tip**
>
> If you choose the ISS, try spotting it in the sky before talking with your counselor. Seeing it pass overhead makes the station feel real instead of abstract.

> **Be Prepared! A strong one-minute ISS explanation**
>
> - **Purpose**: "The ISS is a research lab and living space in orbit." 
> - **Operation**: "Crews rotate in and out while the station circles Earth and supports daily science and maintenance." 
> - **Components**: "Its modules, solar arrays, docking ports, robotic systems, and life-support equipment all work together to keep people alive and productive."

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- Previous: [Crewed Orbital Vehicles](https://merit-badge.university/merit-badges/space-exploration/guide/req6a/index.md)
- Next: [Design a Space Base](https://merit-badge.university/merit-badges/space-exploration/guide/req7/index.md)