Mir Core Module
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The Mir Core Module was the first component of the Mir space station. It was launched on February 20, 1986 on a Proton rocket.
[edit] Specifications
- Length: 13.13 m
- Diameter: 4.15 m
- Habitable volume: 90 m3
- Mass: 20,400 kg
- Wingspan: 20.73 m
[edit] Description
The Mir Core Module design was based on the ealier 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 arival 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, excersize equipment, and medical equipment.
In June, 1987, a thrid solar panel was deployed from the Core Module. It was delivered inside of Kvant-1.
[edit] External links
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| Soviet modules | Core Module · Kvant-1 · Kvant-2 · Kristall |  |
| American-financed modules | Spektr · Docking Module · Priroda | |
| Ships | Soyuz · Progress · Space Shuttle (during Shuttle-Mir Program) | |
