Photos: What the International Space Station has shown us

Russia launched the first component for the International Space Station 20 years ago today (Nov. 20). That Zarya module was joined in orbit a few weeks later by the first US-built module, Unity.

The ISS has provided an oasis of international cooperation and exploration about 250 miles above the Earth. With astronauts spending months at a time in the ISS, the experience provides plenty of time to see the world in a way few can.

Here’s a look back at the breathtaking and varied sights the ISS has allowed us to take in.