LAUNCH MISSION
KhSC Proton-M MLM Nauka
Status
Success
DATE
21 JUL 2021
LAUNCH PROVIDER
Khrunichev State Research and Production Space Center
Launch Pad
200/39 (200L)
Description
Nauka (which means "Science" in Russian), also known as Multipurpose Laboratory Module (MLM), is a new module of the russian segment of the ISS. It will dock at Zvezda's nadir port, replacing the Pirs module occupying it since September 2001. The Nauka module is designed to be used for experiments, docking and cargo as well as serve as a crew work and rest area. It is equipped with full guidance and navigation control including engines and an attitude control system that can be used as a backup by the ISS. The Nauka module also brings the European Robotic Arm, for which a spare elbow joint was already launched in 2010, to the orbital laboratory.
Proton-M
Rocket Description
Proton-M is a three stage Russian heavy lift launch vehicle derived from the Soviet Proton launch vehicle. Image Credit: Alex Lane