Launched on a Russian Proton rocket in November 1998, Zarya ("Sunrise") was the first element of the ISS to go into orbit. Also known as the Functional Cargo Block, this 42,600-pound pressurized module will provide propulsion, power, and fuel storage through the early stages of construction. It also serves as rendezvous and docking port for the Service Module.
Russian technicians work on the nearly completed aft portion of the U.S.-funded, Russian-built Functional Cargo Block, which is now in orbit.