It might be considered the ultimate observation deck and it's bound for the International Space Station. The Cupola module was transported half way around the world from Italy -- where it was built -- arriving at the Kennedy Space Center earlier this month. When installed, the Cupola will provide the Space Station crew with a 360-degree outside view. Cupola has seven windows that will allow the crew to monitor spacewalks, docking operations and survey exterior equipment. The module will also serve as the primary control location for the 60 foot robotic arm known as Canadarm2. When not in use, the Cupola's windows have covers to protect them from micro meteoroids and the harsh space environment. After initial inspection in the Space Station Processing Facility, the module was secured in its transportation container. The Cupola is scheduled for launch aboard the Space Shuttle in early 2009.
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NASA ID
ksc_102204_cupola
Date Created
October 22, 2004
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KSC
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video
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NASA or National Aeronautics and Space Administration
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