Where Is the International Space Station?

Learn how the International Space Station has helped scientists from all over the world research outer space, natural disasters, the human body, and more since its construction in 1998—featuring a full-color foldout map!

From the #1 New York Times bestselling Who Was? series comes Where Is?, a series that tells the stories of world-famous landmarks and natural wonders.

In 1998, the United States, Canada, Japan, Russia, and ten other European countries collaborated to create the International Space Station. Modules were created by experts from all over the world and then launched into space, where they were assembled into a functioning research laboratory and living space for astronauts. Thanks to the station, humans have been able to conduct experiments and collect data in a way that they had never done before. Today, over 280 astronauts from over twenty countries have visited the International Space Station. The contributions to STEM and space exploration aboard the ISS are far-reaching and ongoing for space programs around the world.

Standard and Primary covers are widely available through general retailers. They often have higher print runs and can be cheaper, especially during sales.

In contrast, Direct Market (DM) and variant covers are primarily sold in comic shops. DM editions tend to have more limited availability and may be more valuable to collectors.

The main differences lie in artwork style, availability, price, and collector appeal. Ultimately, the choice between standard and variant covers depends on personal preference, budget, and individual collecting goals.

Comic book enthusiasts have various formats to choose from when collecting their favorite stories.
Here's a brief overview of the main types:

Omnibus

• Large, hardcover collections
• Usually contain complete runs or extensive story arcs
• Typically 800-1000+ pages
• Higher price point, often €100-€150

Oversized Hardcover (OHC)

• Similar dimensions to omnibus, but thinner
• Collect shorter runs or story arcs
• Usually 300-600 pages
• Priced between €30-€50

Hardcover (HC)

• Standard-sized hardcover books
• Collect 6-12 issues typically
• Similar dimensions to single issues, but with a hard cover
• Priced around €25-€35

Trade Paperback (TP)

• Softcover collections
• Standard comic book size
• Usually collect 4-6 issues
• Most affordable option, typically €15-€25

Other Formats

• Absolute Editions: Oversized, deluxe hardcovers (mainly DC Comics)
• Compendiums: Massive paperback collections
• Graphic Novels (OGN/GN): Original stories not previously released as single issues

The choice between these formats often depends on personal preference, budget, and collecting goals. Omnibus and OHC editions offer larger artwork and more content but at a higher price, while TPs provide a more affordable way to collect complete story arcs