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International Space Station (ISS) (Image: Spaceflight) |
The crew aboard the International Space Station (ISS) has released a mannequin designed from a space suit, stuffed with old clothes and a radio transmitter into outer space. Their intention was to create a peculiar sight that resembles an astronaut drifting in space.
This mannequin, fully equipped with gloves and a helmet, has been named “Mr. Smith.” The astronauts on the ISS said “Goodbye, Mr. Smith” before releasing the dummy out of the airlock. They also conducted routine maintenance tasks for the space station and captured new images.
On Mr. Smith, there is a radio transmitter that will send messages in six languages down to ground radio stations over the next few days. These messages are specifically intended for students. This unique idea originated from a Russian amateur radio journalist, and all radio stations can pick up signals from Mr. Smith on the frequency of FM 145.990 Mega Hertz.
However, the meaningful life of Mr. Smith is quite short-lived. He will ignite upon re-entering the Earth’s atmosphere due to friction with the air.
