The International Space Station (ISS) is a large spacecraft that orbits Earth, serving as a home and workplace for astronauts and cosmonauts. It was launched in 1998 and is a collaborative project involving multiple countries, including the United States, Russia, Japan, Canada, and several nations in Europe. The ISS conducts scientific research in various fields, such as biology, physics, and astronomy, taking advantage of the unique microgravity environment. The ISS travels at a speed of about 28,000 kilometers per hour (17,500 miles per hour) and orbits Earth approximately every 90 minutes. It is equipped with solar panels to generate electricity and has living quarters, laboratories, and external modules for experiments. The station plays a crucial role in advancing our understanding of space and preparing for future missions to the Moon and Mars.