ISS: Columbus.

In 2001, a total of 13 assembly and logistic flights to the ISS were made, using both Russian launchers and the Space Shuttle, including flights of the first European astronauts, payloads and Multi-Purpose Logistics Modules (MPLMs). Several US, Russian and Canadian elements have already been assembled in orbit and the fourth Expedition Crew is currently onboard. The cornerstone of ESA's contribution to this enormous international undertaking in space is the Columbus laboratory. On 27 September 2001, the Columbus flight unit arrived at the premises of ESA's industrial prime contractor Astrium in Bremen, Germany. Final integration of the module is now nearly complete and functional qualification and acceptance testing is about to start. This article summarises the characteristics and functional architecture of Columbus, its development, integration and test approach, as well as today's qualification status.