We chose to model the Multipurpose Laboratory Module (Nauka) and the European Automated Transfer Vehicle (ATV), which are two important components of the International Space Station (ISS). The ISS is a scientific laboratory that orbits around the Earth 16 times per day at an altitude of 250 miles. This spacecraft is an example of a united global effort across political lines, involving the following five space agencies: NASA, Russia’s Roscosmos, ESA, JAXA, and CSA. We were interested in developing a 3D-model of these components because we are both STEM majors (Physics and Chemistry) and find the experiments conducted on the ISS, such as how space affects DNA and gene expression, to be fascinating!
To create our 3D-model, we used the ParametricPlot3D and Graphics3D functions in Mathematica. The two components were constructed using cylinders, spheres, cones, thin rectangular prisms, and disks. For example, one of the radiators on the Nauka module was created using the ParametricPlot3D function of a cylinder, and the purpose of the radiator is to release heat from the module. The Graphics3D function was used to build the solar panels on both the Nauka module and ATV, which are needed to generate electricity from solar energy. By manipulating each of the functions and their coordinate locations, we successfully modeled the two crucial components of the International Space Station.
