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 radially 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 maneuvers. Each engine was capable of 300 kg of thrust, although these engines could not be used after April, 1987 with 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 with a lavatory, two cabins for sleeping and privacy, entertainment including movies and music, exercise equipment, and medical equipment. The core also included a command center with televisions screens for communication with TsUP (the Earth command center for the station).
In June 1987, a third solar panel was deployed from the Core Module. It was delivered inside of Kvant-1. This increased solar panel area of this module from 76 m2 to 98m2.
At one point, it was planned for Buran to visit the station around 1992 and exchange the existing core module for a new one. A grappling arm would transfer the attached modules to the new core, and then take the original core module back to Earth.
The module reentered the Earth's atmosphere along with the rest of the Mir Space Station when the station was intentionally de-orbited in May 2001. Any remaining fragments landed in the South Pacific Ocean. (see Deorbit of Mir)
Read more about this topic: Mir Core Module
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