The European multi-user facilities for the Columbus laboratory

In 1995, ESA Member States confirmed their participation in the internation al Space Station (ISS) Programme. This participation consists of infrastruc ture elements (e.g, Columbus, Automated Transfer Vehicle, European Robotic Arm) and utilisation elements (e.g, Microgravity Facilities for Columbus, E uropean Drawer Rack, Laboratory Support Equipment). Once in orbit, Columbus will be outfitted with several multi-user facilitie s. The experiments will provide a much-needed boost to the European scienti fic and industrial community. Equally important, they will greatly increase the competitiveness of European Industry by fostering innovative research - a major priority for ESA and the European Union. They will also facilitat e the start of the commercial utilisation of the Space Station.