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VIRTUALISATION Automated spaceship loaded for ISS resupply
VIRTUALISATION Automated spaceship loaded for ISS resupply | Automated spaceship loaded for ISS resupply |
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| by Stephen Withers | |
| Tuesday, 29 January 2008 | |
  
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cargo being hauled into orbit. Also aboard will be water, scientific equipment and other supplies. The ATV is also being loaded with nearly 6 tonnes of propellant, some of which will be used to power the craft and the rest to refuel the space station so its orbit and attitude can be maintained. As the ISS is in a relatively low orbit, atmospheric drag causes it to slow and fall closer to Earth. To maintain its useful life, the ISS must be periodically boosted to a higher orbit. A special version of the Ariane 5 rocket will lift Jules Verne into orbit from Kourou, French Guiana, and then the ATV will automatically dock with the ISS. The mission is scheduled for February 22 or later, and Jules Verne - the first of at least seven ATVs - may remain attached to the ISS for up to six months. Loaded with around 6 tonnes of ISS waste, it will then descend from orbit and burn up completely on re-entry to the Earth's atmosphere. |
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