ISS module MRM-1 (Rassvet)

Rassvet in space

Description:

• The 521GK Rassvet ('Daybreak') module, or Maliy Issledovatel'skiy Modul-1 (Small Research Module 1) is built by Energiya. Its structure is somewhat similar to the Pirs and Poisk modules and to a stretched Soyuz orbital module, and was originally intended for the now cancelled NPP (Science Power Platform) module. It is 6.6m long and 2.4m in diameter.
• Rassvet will be attached to the nadir port of Zarya, and has a docking port of its own; this provides a parking place for a Soyuz further from the axis of the station, avoiding crowding by the nearby Tranquility module. The module also provides extra storage space.
• Launched attached to Rassvet are components that will later be attached to the forthcoming Nauka module (multipurpose laboratory module) - a radiator, an airlock section, and an elbow joint and work platform for the European robot arm. Nauka will probably be launched in 2012.

Mission details:

• The Rassvet module of the RSC Energia development and production was launched into orbit on May 14, 2010 with the help of the American manned spaceshuttle Atlantis. As part of the ISS Russian Segment, MIM1 formed an additional docking port for the mooring of Soyuz and Progress transport ships. Along the way, Rassvet delivered and secured storage of NASA′s cargo and equipment for the retrofitting of the Nauka multifunctional laboratory module. In addition, a series of experiments were organized on board the module under the program of basic and applied research.
• On May 18, 2010 the Rassvet Small Research Module (MIM1) was docked to the Zarya functional cargo block of the International Space Station (ISS). The new module was intended to fulfill the tasks of developing the ISS Russian Segment and improving its intended use in accordance with the decision of the Federal Space Agency of November 9, 2007.
• The Rassvet module significantly increased the technical capabilities and living space of the ISS RS for the work of the crews of the main expeditions. In the future, it will allow commissioning a complex of equipment and apparatus as part of the implementation of the current "Long-term Program of Scientific and Applied Research and Experiments", approved by the Coordinating Scientific and Technical Council of the State Corporation "Roskosmos".
• The first docking to Rassvet took place in June 2010, and in just 10 years of service the module received 18 Soyuz TMA, Soyuz TMA-M and Soyuz MS ships.

Rassvet module photograph during Exp. 55

External links:

• ENERGIA: Rassvet module.
• Capcomespace: Russian Modules. (in French)