The vast majority of satellites are launched into space to provide services to people on Earth. Space exploration is the use of astronomy and space technology to explore outer space. Physical exploration of space is conducted both by human spaceflights and by robotic spacecraft. Space Shuttle Discovery (Orbiter Vehicle Designation: OV-103) is one of the three currently operational orbiters in the Space Shuttle fleet of NASA, the space agency of the United States. Discovery has performed both research and International Space Station (ISS) assembly missions.

Space technology is technology that is related to entering space, maintaining and using systems during spaceflight and returning people and things from space.