Comprised of modules built by the United States, Russia, and other countries, the International Space Station (ISS) is the culmination of international cooperation in the space race. This guide covers all aspects of this permanently manned Earth-orbiting complex where astronauts carry out scientific research. The text examines how the ISS was built, its logistics modules and freighters, its use as an integrated facility, what life on board is like, and the research carried out and who benefits. Even reluctant readers will be engaged by the diagrams, images, and appendices in this detailed guide.