HOW IT WORKS_ The International Space Station

ISS: The acronym for the International Space Station, a permanently inhabited, government- and industry-supported space station in low Earth orbit.
Modules: The cylindrical, pressurized sections that make up the main body of the ISS, where the crew lives and works, and where experiments are conducted.
Solar arrays: The large, wing-like structures that extend from the ISS truss and collect energy from the sun, converting it into electricity for the station.
Truss: The long, central backbone of the ISS that supports the solar arrays and other components.
Robotic arm: The mechanical arm that can move along the truss and assist with the assembly and maintenance of the ISS, as well as the transfer of cargo and crew.
Docking ports: The openings on the ISS modules that allow spacecraft to attach and detach from the station, enabling the exchange of crew and supplies.
Cupola: The dome-shaped window module that provides a panoramic view of the Earth and space, as well as a control station for the robotic arm.
Microgravity: The condition of very weak gravity that exists inside the ISS, allowing objects and people to float freely.
Orbit: The path of the ISS around the Earth, which takes about 90 minutes to complete.
Expedition: The term for the long-duration missions of the ISS crew, which typically last six months and involve various scientific and educational activities.