LAUNCH CENTER

Success

Wed Jul 21 2021

Khrunichev State Research and Production Space Center

MLM Nauka

Launch Successful

Launch Time

(2:58 PM UTC)

Launch Window Start

(2:58 PM UTC)

Launch Window End

(2:58 PM UTC)

Location

No Recovery Specified

Type

No Recovery Specified

Proton-M

Proton-M is a three stage Russian heavy lift launch vehicle derived from the Soviet Proton launch vehicle. Image Credit: Alex Lane

Type: Human Exploration
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.

Location

Baikonur Cosmodrome, Republic of Kazakhstan

Pad

200/39 (200L)