MIR CORE MODULE

The 'Mir Core Module' (DOS-7) was the first component of the Mir space station. It was launched on February 20, 1986 on a Proton rocket.

Contents

Specifications

Description

See also

External links

Specifications

★ Length: 13.13 m

★ Diameter: 4.15 m

★ Habitable volume: 90 m³

★ Mass: 20,400 kg

★ Wingspan: 20.73 m

★ Configuration: DOS (Dolgovremennaya Orbitalnaya Stanziya) type

Description

The Mir Core Module (DOS-7) design was based on the earlier DOS based Salyut 6 and Salyut 7 space stations. However, there were many key differences which included better computers and solar arrays. It was designed to comfortably fit two cosmonauts each having their own cabin. The Core Module also had six docking ports. Four of them, which were located radialy on the node on the front of the module, were called "berthing" ports designed for station expansions. The other two ports were located laterally, one located at the node and the other located at the aft of the module, were designed for routine Soyuz and Progress dockings. Mir had two engines, located aft, which were designed for orbital manevours. Each engine was capable of 300 kg of thrust. Both of the engines were permantely disabled in April, 1987 after the arrival of the Kvant-1 module at the station's aft port.
The main purpose of the Core Module throughout the station's lifetime was a living area. It was equipped a lavatory, two cabins for sleeping and privacy, entertainment through movies and music, exercise equipment, and medical equipment.
In June, 1987, a third solar panel was deployed from the Core Module. It was delivered inside of Kvant-1.

See also

★ Salyut

External links

★ Russian Space Web

★ Encyclopedia Astronautica

★ Gunter's Space Page - information on Mir