The Node 3 module known as Tranquility will be one of the last major components added
to the International Space Station as construction draws to a close.
The pressurized component will provide additional room for many of the space
station's life support and environmental control systems already on board.
These systems include air revitalization, oxygen generation and water recycling.
Tranquility's location on the station will be on the Earth-facing side of the Unity node.
The new component also will provide an additional docking point for
space shuttles and other crew vehicles visiting the station.
The module was built for NASA by Thales Alenia Space in Turin, Italy, under contract to the European Space Agency.
Delivered along with the node will be Cupola, which might be considered the ultimate observation deck.
Cupola is a unique work module with six windows on the sides and one on top,
and also was built for the European Space Agency.
Once attached to Tranquility, Cupola will resemble a circular bay window that will
provide a vastly improved view of the station's exterior.
The module's multidirectional view will allow the crew to monitor spacewalks and docking operations,
while providing a spectacular view of Earth and other celestial objects.
Cupola can accommodate two crew members with portable workstations from
which they can control the station and robotics activities.
Astronauts are set to deliver both Cupola and Tranquility to the space station during
the STS-130 mission aboard space shuttle Endeavour.