The Columbus module is a multi-purpose laboratory in space and has been an integral part of the International Space Station (ISS) since 2008. It is the largest contribution of the European Space Agency (ESA) to the ISS. The laboratory is supported and monitored by the Columbus Control Centre, which is located on the premises of the German Aerospace Center (DLR) in Oberpfaffenhofen near Munich. It is the direct link to the Columbus module in orbit. Since non-European experiments are also conducted in this module, the Control Centre is also in contact with the ISS Control Centre in the USA and Moscow. It has two control rooms. The first is responsible for real-time monitoring and the second for preparatory activities, such as training or simulations. It also serves as a back-up in case the first control room fails.
Columbus Control Centre website: https://www.esa.int/Science_Exploration/Human_and_Robotic_Exploration/Columbus/Columbus_Control_Centre_Oberpfaffenhofen_Germany
Photo: So many screens: they have everything in view. Credits: ESA.
