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Reference Guide to the International Space Station

Reference Guide to the International Space Station

BOOKISSREF Price $21.95

Edited by Gary Kitmacher

This book, originally published by NASA, is designed to provide a broad overview of the International Space Station's (ISS) complex configuration, design, and component systems, as well as the sophisticated procedures required in the ISS's construction and operation.

As of mid-2006 when this guide was first published, the ISS has been continuously crewed for more than five years and was about 50 percent complete. There were 16 station elements in orbit, nine elements ready for launch at Kennedy Space Center in Florida, and another six elements in process at various international partner sites. There had been more than 50 flights to the ISS, including flights for assembly, crew rotation and logistical support.

The ISS is currently operating with a crew of three. Its assembly will continue through the year 2010. and as it grows, its capabilities will increase, requiring a larger crew. Currently, 16 countries are involved designing, building, launching and manning the ISS.

What sets this guide apart from other references is its full-color, illustrated layout. There are exploded diagrams of each component; two-page spreads detailing station-wide life support and control systems; a step-by-step construction timeline that incorporates both illustrations and photography of the real hardware, either in space or on the ground; crew rosters, and much more.

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