Multi-Purpose Logistics Modules

There are 3 of these modules, Italian built but US owned. They contain life support systems and are intended for use much like that of a "moving van". They are transported to the space station by shuttle, docked just any other component module of the ISS, then returned to Earth on the shuttle. Cargo can be carried up to the space station, transferred into the station, then refilled with material intended for return to Earth.

The first MPLM is named Leonardo in honor of Leonardo da Vinci. A second module is named Raffaello after Raffaello Sanzio, and the third named Donato for Donato di Niccolo Di Betto Bardi.