ScienceAugust 13, 2026

airlock

AIR-lak

Definition

A compartment with two airtight doors in sequence that allows passage between environments of different air pressures.

Etymology

The word is a compound formation from 'air' and 'lock,' appearing in English in the late 19th century to describe devices used in caissons and diving bells to maintain pressure.

In the news

The article references the ISS airlock as the critical equipment necessary for astronauts to safely conduct spacewalks or transfer between the station and docked spacecraft.

Mike Fincke Retires From NASA After ISS Medical Evacuation Left His Final Mission Unexplained

Read the full article ↗

Tech Times

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