Europe and the International Space Station

The International Space Station, ISS, is the world’s largest-ever international scientific venture. The partnership includes the USA, Russia, Canada, Japan and Europe.  Orbiting 400 kilometres above us, the ISS offers unique opportunities to observe our planet, carry out research in space and prepare for human exploration of the Solar System. 

ESA is responsible for two key elements of the International Space Station:  the Columbus research laboratory, and the Automated Transfer Vehicle, ATV,  that delivered precious supplies to the ISS during five flights from 2008 to 2015.  

A European Service Module based on ATV technology will provide four major system functions to NASA’s Orion spacecraft: propulsion, power, thermal control and vital resources for the astronauts, such as water and a breathable atmosphere.

The Columbus Laboratory

The Automated Transfer Vehicle

The Cupola

European Service Module for Orion