When Node 3 is added to the International Space Station it will contain the most advanced life support systems ever flown in space. These systems will recycle waste water for crew use and generate oxygen for the crew to breathe. In addition, Node 3 will contain an atmosphere revitalization system to remove contaminants from the atmosphere and monitor/control the atmosphere constituents of the ISS. The Node 3 will also contain the Waste and Hygiene Compartment (toilet) for supporting the on-board crew.

The Node 3 is also designed to provide berthing locations with power, data & commanding, thermal and environmental control, and crew access for more attached habitable volumes or for crew transportation vehicles or stowage, or an appropriate combination of all of these.

The Node 3 will also have a Cupola attached to it with a Robotic Work Station inside it to assist in the assembly/maintenance of the ISS as well as offer a window for earth observations. The Node 3 will also have redundant ports for the logistics module or the Space Shuttle to be berthed.

Node 3 is currently not part of the space station plan.