Stations

A station is a fixed place where activities occur or services are provided as part of a system. Stations function as hubs within networks such as transportation, utilities, communications, and research.

In transportation, a station is a facility where vehicles stop to load or unload passengers or cargo. This includes railway, tram, bus, and subway stations, typically with platforms, shelters, and ticketing. A stop or halt is a minor pause, while a terminal is a major end-point.

Power stations generate electricity or heat. Types include thermal plants, hydroelectric dams, nuclear plants, wind and solar farms, and geothermal stations. They connect to the grid and vary in size from small local units to national-scale facilities.

Radio and television stations produce or broadcast programming. They include studios, transmitters, licenses, and operate on assigned frequencies or channels; some are independent, others part of networks.

Weather stations measure atmospheric conditions such as temperature, humidity, wind, pressure, and precipitation. They form networks that support forecasts and climate research, and may be located in cities, coasts, or remote areas.

Space stations are orbiting platforms for habitation or experiments, such as the International Space Station. In field science, field stations support research in remote locations.

Other meanings include service stations for vehicles and fixed bases for police or military.