Air Leak Detected on International Space Station: Investigation and Implications

A minor air leak on the International Space Station was detected, with pressure dropping from 760 to 720 mmHg. The crew used ultrasound equipment to find the leak, which was traced to a cracked tube in the Destiny module. The Russian-built Zwesta section was initially suspected. The Space Shuttle program, designed for ISS construction, was halted after the Columbia disaster. Future missions will focus on completing the ISS, with safety measures in place for shuttle issues. No date is set for the shuttle's return.

What was the initial air pressure drop on the ISS due to the leak?

• From 780 to 730 millimetres of mercury

• From 700 to 650 millimetres of mercury

• From 800 to 750 millimetres of mercury

• From 760 to 720 millimetres of mercury

Which module was initially suspected to be the source of the leak?

• Columbus

• Harmony

• Destiny

• Zwesta

Where was the actual source of the leak found?

• In a damaged panel in the Columbus module

• In a cracked tube in the Destiny module

• In a broken seal in the Harmony module

• In a faulty valve in the Zwesta module

What was the primary purpose of NASA's Space Shuttle design?

• To transport satellites

• To conduct lunar missions

• To construct an orbiting space station

• To explore Mars

What safety measure is in place if the shuttle encounters problems in orbit?

• Docking with a rescue shuttle

• Immediate return to Earth

• Activation of emergency thrusters

• Use of the Soyuz escape module