The International Space Station (ISS) orbits Earth at an average altitude of 408 kilometers above the planet's surface. It travels at a speed of approximately 28,000 kilometers per hour, completing one orbit around Earth every 90 minutes. The ISS has been continuously occupied since November 2000, making it one of humanity's longest-running space missions. The station serves as a research laboratory where astronauts conduct experiments in biology, physics, astronomy, and other fields in the unique microgravity environment.
How long does it take the International Space Station to complete one orbit around Earth?
- Every 90 minutes at its current orbital speed (correct answer)
- About 408 minutes at its average altitude
- Approximately 28,000 minutes for each complete revolution
- Since November 2000 during continuous occupation periods
Explanation: The passage explicitly states that the ISS completes 'one orbit around Earth every 90 minutes.' Choice B confuses the orbit time with the altitude measurement. Choice C confuses the orbit time with the speed measurement. Choice D confuses the orbit time with the start of continuous occupation.