answers to many of their queries. The first of such precursors will be the MODULE M a close to 150 kilogram spacecraft propelled by electric thrusters. This module is expected to be delivered to Mir by scheduled Progress cargo spacecraft. The Module M vehicle will be assembled and checked out by the cosmonauts during their extra vehicular activity.

The prospective mission’s principal task are intended to: make a demonstration flight featuring orbital altitude manoeuvres; try out a sustainer electric thrasher system in the course of a long time operation; study of electric thrusters plasma jets on the vehicle’s body; as well as assess the operability of platform systems and electronic equipment.

To meaningfully simplify the design and reduce costs, the Module M is expected to be spin oriented to the Sun as it gets separated from the orbital station. Just like a gyroscope, it would keep its spin axis unaltered in the inertial reference frame.

In the initial stage, the 0.5 m/sec separation speed will allow the spacecraft to fly away from the station at a rate of about 3 kilometres per revolution. Eventually, the Module M following a spiral winding-off trajectory will reach an orbital of 1200-1500 kilometres. The spacecraft will carry a range of sensors designed to take regular measurements of its own rarefied atmosphere and a the radio amateur satellite VOXSAT.

VOXSAT is going to turn on when Module M arrived to its final orbit at 1200-1500 kilometres a month ago it launched from Mir Orbital Station.