Monolithic space stations

Space stations are structures designed to allow hiunans to live in space. There are two basic types monohthic and modular. Monolithic space stations are one-piece structures. They are launched into space as single units. The U.S. Skylab was a monolithic space station. Modular space stations are launched into space as separate sections and then assembled in outer space. The International Space Station (Figure 12-24) is a modular unit. 

Compare and contrast the advantages of a monolithic space station compared to a modular space station. 

The design of space stations evolved since the first space station missions of the early 1970 s. The space stations of the Salyut and other programs were monolithic structures, so called because they were designed as centralized spacecraft. Later space stations favored modular designs that allow diverse elements to be added as needed. For example, the ISS is made up of several modules added over several years. The most common uses of space stations by scientists are as laboratories for experiments in a range of life and material sciences. 

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