This model depicts the Spacelab laboratory module flown in the payload bay of the Space Shuttle on research missions. The configuration shown is for the Spacelab Life Sciences missions, flown as STS-40 in 1991 and STS-58 in 1993. The model shows astronauts working in the lab; experiments and equipment would fill in the racks facing the center aisle. The life science mission crews performed experiments to study how humans, animals and cells respond to microgravity and re-adapt to Earth's gravity on return. Spacelab made it possible to do varied in-flight research on the muscles, bones, heart, lungs, inner ear, and other organs and systems that react to spaceflight.
NASA transferred this model to the Museum in 2004.
Display Status
This object is not on display at the National Air and Space Museum. It is either on loan or in storage.
Object Details
Country of Origin
United States of America
Type
MODELS-Crewed Spacecraft & Parts
Manufacturer
Design Specialties
Dimensions
Spacelab: 13 in. (33 cm) long x 7 1/2 in. (19 cm) diameter
on base: 14 in. (35.6 cm) long x 10 in. (25.4 cm) wide x 4 in. (10.2 cm) high
Materials
plastic, wood, metal
Inventory Number
A20060112000
Credit Line
Transferred from NASA Langley Research Center
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
For more information, visit the Smithsonians Terms of Use.