Commemoration of 25 Years of the International Space Station

The International Space Station (ISS) celebrates an exceptionally significant anniversary this November - 25 years of continuous operation. Over this quarter of a century, the ISS has established itself as a key element of human space exploration, a place where numerous experiments, research, and technological advancements have taken place. This year’s celebration was not just a historical event, but also an opportunity to reflect on past achievements and future plans for space exploration.

Development and Evolution of the Station

The station took its first step towards construction in 1998, when the Russian module Zarya and the American Unity module were launched separately but soon connected in space. Bob Cabana, commander of the STS-88 mission, recalls the early days of the station as a "spartan" place that still needed to create all the necessary conditions for long-term research and human habitation. Over the past years, the ISS has significantly expanded; modules from Russia, Japan, Europe, Canada, and the United States have been added, including robotic arms that have enabled complex tasks to be performed in microgravity conditions.

Experiments Pushing the Boundaries

One of the key aspects of the International Space Station is the experiments conducted in microgravity conditions. During its 25 years, the ISS has provided a unique opportunity to explore how microgravity affects various biological, chemical, and physical processes. For instance, scientists have addressed questions regarding the possibility of growing tissues in space, producing high-quality fibers for optical cables, and the biological effects of prolonged stays in space on the human body. Long-term missions provide scientific data that helps understand how organisms react to conditions without gravity, which is crucial for future missions to Mars or even more distant parts of the solar system.

Impact on the Human Body and Psychology

Life on the International Space Station comes with many challenges, not only physical but also psychological. Astronauts spend a lot of time in isolation, with minimal privacy, and are under constant pressure to meet demanding work tasks. Physical changes include muscle atrophy due to the lack of gravity, meaning astronauts must exercise for at least two hours every day to maintain muscle mass. Psychological effects are also profound; living in a small space, surrounded by the same people for months, poses a challenge that cannot be easily simulated on Earth. Experiments conducted on the ISS have provided valuable insights into how humans can adapt to life in space, which will be crucial for future long-duration missions.

Privatization and the Future of Space Stations

As the ISS enters its final phase, its service is expected to end by 2030, after which the station will be deorbited and safely brought down into the atmosphere, where most of the structure will burn up upon reentry. However, NASA and its partners are already working on developing new commercial space stations that could replace the ISS. In recent years, private companies such as Nanoracks, SpaceX, and Axiom Space have been actively involved in missions to the ISS, including cargo delivery and organizing commercial astronaut flights. NASA is also preparing for a gradual transition towards the commercialization of low Earth orbit, meaning that future stations could serve both scientific research and commercial ventures, including the production and development of technologies for future human missions.

Legacy and Symbolism of the International Space Station

The International Space Station is not only a technological marvel but also a symbol of international cooperation. Over the years, thousands of engineers, scientists, and astronauts from over 20 countries have worked to maintain and enhance the ISS, making it one of the most complex structures ever built by humans. The station demonstrates what can be achieved when countries work together to invest in research and development, setting aside political differences to achieve common goals. As the end of the ISS's operational life approaches, the legacy of this space station will continue to inspire future generations of researchers and engineers to keep exploring and expanding the boundaries of what is possible in space.