Destiny (ISS module)

List of ISS modules

Destiny (English for fate ) is the fourth module of the International Space Station and the second from the U.S.. It has a cylindrical shape, is 8.5 m long, has a diameter of 4.3 m and an empty weight of 14.5 t has. Fully equipped its mass is 24.0 t.

At the rear Destiny is permanently connected to the coupling module Unity, at the bow with the Harmony connecting node. Destiny was launched into space with the STS -98 mission, on 7 February 2001.

A total of 24 standard racks available: 13 of which can be used for experiments and scientific equipment, while the remaining 11 are used to control or as a storage room.

The shell of the laboratory module is made of aluminum and is also surrounded by a micrometeorite protection. This consists of a material similar to bulletproof vests. Destiny has a large window that can be closed with a type of shutter. This window will take place mostly earth-related research.

At the start of four racks were mounted. They serve primarily the control of the major systems and the preservation of life. Included are systems for air ventilation, two cooling systems, water-based (4 ° C and 17 ° C ) system, two so-called Avionics racks with control systems for internal communication, for position control, life support, environmental data, coupling mechanisms, pressure equalization, command and data processing as well as the energy and the alarm system (fire detection and air pressure control). In addition, a fifth rack was installed with an air purification system.

Later, other supply racks ( hot water systems, support for extravehicular activities, tracking and communications) and research equipment were installed. These were three rows of six racks free. All racks are provided by a central power and data bus with power and control systems. In addition, two universal cooling systems are available. At times, samples of completed experiments already can be stored under special conditions (eg frozen ). The racks are universal, standardized and interchangeable. The transport takes place within special logistics modules ( MPLM ).

In the U.S. laboratory module Destiny experiments in the areas of microgravity, life sciences, biology, ecology, earth science, space science and technology are performed. Also commercial research are planned.

Leroy Chiao in the Destiny module

Kevin Ford pilot on STS -128 in the Destiny laboratory