MIR-Module: Kvant 2

Scientific and Airlock module
Launch: November 26, 1989
Vehicle: Proton K
Launch site: Baikonur		 Kvant1
Berthed at a radial port since November 1989, the module weighs 19.6 tons and carries an EVA airlock, two solar arrays, and science and life support equipment.

The module is based on the transport logistics spacecraft originally intended for the Almaz military space station program of the early 1970s.

It was initially docked at the axial port, but was later moved to a radial port, leaving the axial port available for Soyuz-TM and Progress-M visits.

Module Mass
(Kg) 		Length
(m) 		Max. Diameter
(m) 		Pressurized Volume
(Cubic Meters) 		No. of Solar Arrays/Area
(Square Meters) 		Power Output
(KW) 		Function
Kvant-2 18,500 12.4 4.35 61.3 2/53 6.9 Remote sensing, life support, EVA airlock

The purpose of Kvant-2 is to provide biological research data, Earth observation data, and EVA capability. It adds additional system capability to Mir. Kvant-2 includes additional life support system, drinking water, and oxygen provisions, motion control systems, and power distribution, as well as shower and washing facilities.

Kvant-2 is divided into three pressurized compartments: instrumentation/cargo, science instrument, and airlock.

The airlock not only provides EVA capability, but also contains a self-sustained cosmonaut maneuvering unit that increases the range and complexity of tasks that can be attempted via EVA. For instance, various construction materials and electronic components can be placed on the outside of the Mir Complex modules via EVA. The effects of space environment exposure on these construction materials can later be investigated.