European spacecraft connects itself with ISS

Early in the morning of March 29 (Vietnam time), the European Space Agency's (ESA) modern space ATV has successfully connected to the International Space Station (ISS). The connection takes place automatically.

>>>Europe successfully launched the ATV-3 transport ship to ISS

According to BBC, ATV has connected itself to the Zvezda module located behind ISS at 2231 on March 28 international time (ie 5:30 am March 29). This ship carries food, water, fuel, air and equipment for astronauts on the station.

ATV ships connect themselves with ISS

The 20 ton ATV, launched into space last Thursday, is the largest spaceship serving astronauts on ISS when the US shuttle fleet 'retires'.

The ATV operates completely automatically, using its own computer systems and sensors to find ISS in orbit and connect to the station. The ship management board (headquartered in Toulouse, France) oversees its final operations but does not need to intervene.

When ATV was about to connect with the ISS, astronauts Andre Kuipers and Oleg Kononenko were in the Zvezda module. They are ready to move to a safe place if there is a problem, but the connection is extremely convenient.

This is the third ATV to be put on ISS by the European Space Agency (ESA). The previous two flights took place in 2008 and 2011.