Dictionary

global warming: An increase in the average temperature of the Earth's atmosphere, especially a sustained increase sufficient to cause climatic change.

gravity: A natural phenomenon by which all objects with mass attract each other. It is also the agency that gives objects weight.

Imaging Infrared Radiometer: Also known as IIR; used to detect cirrus cloud emission and particle size.

International Space Station: A large satellite equipped to support a human crew; designed to stay in orbit around Earth for a long period of time. It serves as a base for launching exploratory expeditions, conducting research, repairing satellites and performing other space-related activities.

interplanetary medium: The material which fills the solar system and through which all the larger solar system bodies such as planets, asteroids and comets move.

ISS timeline: A calendar of events for the International Space Station.