European Columbus laboratory
Columbus is a research laboratory which is permanently attached to the International Space Station and provides internal payload accommodation for experiments in the field of multidisciplinary research into material science, fluid physics and life science. In addition, an external payload facility hosts experiments and applications in the field of space science, Earth observation and technology.
| Dimensions | |
|---|---|
| Total module length | 6 871 mm |
| Largest diameter | 4 477 mm |
| Total internal volume | 75 m3 |
| Total volume of payload racks | 25 m3 |
| Mass budget | |
|---|---|
| Mass without payload | 10 275 kg |
| Launch mass | 12 775 kg (2500 kg payload) |
| Maximum payload mass | 9 000 kg (maximum) |
| Maximum on orbit mass | 21 000 kg |
| Flight Hardware |
|---|
| Biolab, Fluid Science Laboratory, European Physiology Module, European Drawer Rack |
| European Transport Carrier |
| Data and mission computers Command/Measurement Units, High rate multiplexer, Mass Memory Unit |
| Video Camera (2), and Monitor Audio system, Master Alarm Light panel (2), Fire extinguisher (2) |
| Portable Breathing Apparatus (2), Inter Module Ventilation valves and fans |
| Thermal Control System valves, Power Distribution Unit, Vital Telemetry Computer units |
| Heat exchangers, Circulation Fan Assembly and External Payload Facility (4) |
| Launch configuration | |
|---|---|
| Fluid Science Laboratory, European Physiology Module, Biolab, European Drawer Rack | |
|
European Transportation Carrier Remaining racks will be installed while on orbit. |
|
| Launch vehicle | Space Shuttle Atlantis - STS-122 |
| Launch site | Kennedy Space Center |
| Launch date | 7 February 2008 |
| On-orbit configuration | |
|---|---|
| Payload accommodation | Attached to Node 2 starboard docking port |
| 10 International Standard Payload Racks (ISPR) (max. 998 kg each) | |
|
4 external payload facilities (max. 370 kg each) |
| Environmental control | |
|---|---|
| Supported crew | 3 |
| Cabin temperature | Between 16° and 27°C |
| Air pressure | Between 959 and 1013 hPa |
| Heat rejection | Up to 22 kW through moderate and low temperature cooling loops |
| Main contractor |
|---|
| Astrium, leading a consortium of many sub-contractors |
