Space Station Habitat / Laboratory Module

International Space Station experiment and lab modules mostly consist of replaceable “racks” that contain equipment, experiments, stowage, crew systems, and maintenance or operational systems.

Contained within a partial module representation of the U.S. Laboratory, Japanese Experiment Module or European Space Agency Lab are several representative racks. The six main module racks will have informational representations, demonstrations, or hands-on activities associated with them. Twelve other racks will be represented on the ceiling and floor of the module.

The Hardware:

Suggested Racks:

EXPRESS Rack/AstroCulture

An EXPRESS Rack mock-up contains several representative experiments including the Astroculture hydroponics plant growth chamber, which is seen growing wheat.

Glovebox Rack

A glovebox like that used on the ISS to isolate certain experiment materials from the rest of the space station is seen in this rack. The glovebox seen is a donation from Marshall Space Flight Center. 

Guests can place their hands in the gloves to manipulate a particle dispersion experiment that shows a simulation of particles moving on Earth and in space.

Biotechnology Rack (Crystal Growth)

A mock-up of a Biotechnology rack allows guests can look at a viewer to see crystals grown in space and on Earth.

Optical Window Rack

The Window Observational Research Facility or WORF will be used for many different Earth observation activities and photography. Guests can “see” the Earth through the window as it passes beneath the ISS. (Technically this rack would be located in the floor, but design designated a forward location.)  An IMAX camera is mocked-up at the window.

Human Research Facility Rack

Knowing how the body reacts in microgravity is important to understand.  The Human Research Facility or HRF rack mock-up represents this important study.

Combustion Rack (Flames)

A Combustion rack mock-up in which guests can look into a viewer to see flames generated in space and on Earth.

Also see rack simulators.

Fast Facts:

• Turn key.

• Diameter:  174"

• Length: 348"

• 10-15 Minute experience

• Variable racks and equipment

• Audio system with ambient sound track

• Electrical components

• Ventilation

• Power distribution

• Casters

• Approximately 60 days to complete unit

• One year warranty on custom components

• Manufacturers warranty on off-the-shelf items

• Simulators can support activities, camps, summer programs, camp-ins, and much more.

• All components are designed to rugged standards for durability. 

• Created by an experienced design team in space-related education, exhibits and simulations: M.D. Perry & Associates and Design Force.

Notice: all designs, dimensions and costs are subject to change. Images are copyright protected and cannot be used without the written consent of MuseumWorx.