Exploring the Skylab: Functions, Uses, and More

  • Thread starter PhysicsGeek69
  • Start date
In summary, Skylab was the first space station launched by the US in 1973. It was intended to be serviced by the Space Shuttle, but delays in its development led to the station's crash in 1979. There were hopes for a contingency plan to save Skylab, but it never came to fruition.
  • #1
PhysicsGeek69
Help On the "SkyLab"

I was recently checking and found a place in space called the skylab...could someone inform me of what the skylab is? its functions? uses? etc.. thanks
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #3


http://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/skylab/

http://www.nasa.gov/missions/shuttle/f_skylab1.html

http://history.msfc.nasa.gov/skylab/

Then Space Shuttle (STS) was supposed to have been completed and flight ready in time to service Skylab. Unfortunately, problems delayed deployment of Shuttle, and Skylab came down into the atmosphere. It was a sad time.

I had hoped that they would have had a contingency plan, such as a small upper stage booster that could have been rendezvoused with the station and boosted Skylab to higher orbit.
 

FAQ: Exploring the Skylab: Functions, Uses, and More

What was the purpose of Skylab?

Skylab was a space station launched by NASA in 1973 with the primary purpose of conducting scientific experiments and observations in space.

How long did Skylab stay in orbit?

Skylab orbited the Earth for six years, from 1973 to 1979. It was abandoned in 1979 and re-entered the Earth's atmosphere in 1979.

What types of experiments were conducted on Skylab?

Skylab conducted a variety of experiments in the fields of astronomy, Earth observation, and human physiology. Some notable experiments include studying the effects of microgravity on the human body, observing the Sun and other celestial bodies, and collecting data on the Earth's climate and environment.

How was Skylab powered?

Skylab was powered by solar panels, which generated electricity from the Sun's energy. The station also had backup batteries in case of solar panel malfunctions.

Did any astronauts live on Skylab?

Yes, Skylab was occupied by three different crews of astronauts during its time in orbit. Each crew stayed on the station for several months at a time, conducting experiments and maintaining the station's systems.

Back
Top