Public asked to name Node 3 module on Space Station

William Atkins
Saturday, 21 February 2009 18:44

Science - Space

NASA is asking the public to name the next module to be attached to the International Space Station. Now called Node 3, the work-station module and cupola will include seven windows for out-of-this-world views of Earth and outer space.


Specifically, the Node 3 and Cupola will include six rectangular windows around its sides and one circular window positioned overhead, which will provide a 360-degree view around the ISS.

The robotic control station, Node 3, will be connected to the port side of the Unity Node (Node 1).

Once activated, it will provide eight refrigerator-sized racks for life support systems.

According to the NASA media brief Be part of history – Help NASA name the next Space Station module, “Eight refrigerator-sized racks in the Node 3 module will provide room for many of the station's life support systems. Attached to the node is the cupola, a one-of-a-kind work station with six windows around the sides and one on top.”

And, “The cupola will offer astronauts a spectacular view of their home planet and their home in space. In addition to providing a perfect location to observe and photograph Earth, the cupola also will contain a robotics workstation from which astronauts will be able to control the station's 57-foot robotic arm."

People will be able to vote until March 20, 2009. An announcement of the winning name will occur on April 28, 2009 at the NASA Kennedy Space Center in Florida.

The node is scheduled to arrive in Florida on April 20th in preparation for its ride into space.

At that time, Node 3 will be officially presented at ceremonies within the NASA facility.

Page two contains the website where you go to vote for the new International Space Station Node 3.