Structure
The CSS is a third generation modular space station. First generation space stations, such as early Salyut (fireworks) and Almaz (diamond) stations and Skylab were single piece stations, and not designed for resupply. Salyut 6, 7 and Tiangong stations are designed for mid-mission resupply. Mir, the International Space Station, OPSEK and the CSS are modular space stations, assembled on-orbit from pieces launched separately. Modularised design methods can greatly improve reliability，reduce costs, shorten development cycle, and meet diversified task requirements.
Read more about this topic: Chinese Space Station
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“The structure was designed by an old sea captain who believed that the world would end in a flood. He built a home in the traditional shape of the Ark, inverted, with the roof forming the hull of the proposed vessel. The builder expected that the deluge would cause the house to topple and then reverse itself, floating away on its roof until it should land on some new Ararat.”
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