Common Node Module NM (UM) and the MLM Air Lock Module [ OPSEK]

Planned for ISS Russian Section

07-21-10

The intent is to also add a smaller MLM airlock module to the Common Node Module NM (UM). That multiple docking port module launched on a Soyuz booster with Progress M-UM spacecraft carrying a multiple docking port like that of MIR for attachment to the front earth facing MLM, (FGB-2) Module. It is provided with the docking adapter attachment point for the larger modules. The node provides for the existing Soyuz docking berth directly facing earthward as well as a potential EVA Airlock. Progress M-UM weighs 4,000 kilograms and an internal volume of 14 meters cubed and is presently scheduled for launch in 2013.

The October 22, 2005, Russian Federation government approved of FSP 2006-2015 expanded spaceflight development decision was based on the re appearance of the Soviet era like fiscal Five Year Plan ( 2006-2010) and the next five year plan called the five year Forecast Plan (2011-2015) cycle to Russian Federal Space Agency developments. Soon the Russian Federal Space Agency will replace the present FYP with the 2011-2015 five year plan followed by the 2016-2020 forecast plan.

Whether this new multiple docking port module for the crewed space laboratory modules for ISS come to fruition depends in large part on the economic reality of the Russian economy to support its fulfillment in the face of the world economic crisis.

It has already been stated by the Russian’s that as long as the U. S. supplies power cheaply as a trade off there will be no need to build the last modules for now except in the new post ISS space station program of Russia called OPSEK. Truly this leaves in doubt the fate of these modules in the new Russian Federal Space Agency five year plans of 2011-2015 and 2016-2020. Prime Minister Putin on July 19, 2010 suggested that the completion of the Russian segment of ISS should be accomplished in 2015.

 

Russian ISS Planned Segement Development Credit Roskosmos