Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
A space station is a large spacecraft that remains in low Earth orbit for extended periods of time and serves as a home and workplace for astronauts.
Related terms
Low Earth Orbit: The region of space around the Earth with an altitude between 160 kilometers (99 miles) and 2,000 kilometers (1,200 miles) above sea level.
Astronauts: Highly trained individuals who travel into space to conduct research, perform tasks outside the spacecraft, and explore new frontiers.
Scientific Experiments: Controlled tests or investigations performed by scientists to gather data and gain knowledge about various phenomena.