ScienceJuly 15, 2026

cupola

ˈkjuːpələ

Definition

A small, dome-shaped observation module on the International Space Station, equipped with large windows for viewing space and Earth.

Etymology

Derived from the Italian 'cupola,' meaning 'dome,' which itself comes from the Latin 'cupula,' meaning 'small cask or tub.' It entered English in the 17th century to describe architectural structures before being applied to the ISS module.

In the news

The article describes the cupola as a cramped but popular viewing portal where crew members gathered to watch the arrival of new colleagues. It highlights how the module serves as both a functional observation deck and a social space for astronauts.

Astronauts welcome new crew to International Space Station

Read the full article ↗

The Grand Junction Daily Sentinel

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