Astronauts from the USA and Europe were scheduled to visit the Lindholmen company in Gösteborg, Sweden, on 27 September to inspect the six-windowed cupola destined to give crewmembers a 360° view from the International Space Station (ISS). The 2m (6ft)-diameter domed, hexagonal-shaped cupola will allow crewmembers to control robotic arms systems being installed on the ISS. Initially the unit, shown here as a computer-generated image, will be attached to the Unity node already in orbit. In 2003, the cupola will be moved to the forward port of Node No 3, to provide a better view. The windows are fitted with shade panels for protection against debris when they are not in use.
Source: Flight International
