View source for Nauka (ISS module)

{{Short description|Module of the International Space Station}}
{{About|the ISS component|the academic publisher|Nauka (publisher)}}
{{italic title}}
{{Use British English|date=May 2020}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=September 2022}}
{{Infobox space station module
| spelling               = gb
| module                 = ''Nauka'' 
| module_image           = Nauka Module as seen from Cupola during VKD-51 spacewalk.jpg
| module_image_caption   = ''Nauka'' as seen from the ''Cupola'', during a Russian spacewalk in January 2022.
| station                = [[International Space Station]]
| launch                 = 21 July 2021, 14:58:25{{nbsp}}[[Coordinated Universal Time|UTC]]
| launch_vehicle         = [[Proton-M]]
| docked                 = 29 July 2021, 13:29:01{{nbsp}}UTC ([[Zvezda (ISS module)|''Zvezda'']] nadir)
| mass                   = {{cvt|20357|kg}} <!-- in orbit, At launch: {{cvt|23200|kg}}, Dry mass: {{cvt|20307|kg}} -->
| length                 = {{cvt|13.12|m}}
| width                  = {{cvt|29.7|m}}
| height                 = 
| diameter               = {{cvt|4.25|m}}
| volume                 = {{plainlist|
* {{cvt|80.9|m3}}
* Habitable: {{cvt|70|m3}}
}}
| stats_ref              = 
| configuration_image    = Artists Conception of Nauka Module Structure.gif
| configuration_caption  = Diagram of ''Nauka''{{'}}s forward and aft exterior, with the [[European Robotic Arm]] in purple.
}}
'''''Nauka''''' ({{Langx|ru|Наука|lit=Science}}), also known as the '''''Multipurpose Laboratory Module, Upgrade''''' (MLM-U, {{Langx|ru|Многоцелевой лабораторный модуль, усоверше́нствованный|links=no}}), is the primary laboratory of the [[Russian Orbital Segment]] of the [[International Space Station]] (ISS). Serving alongside the [[Rassvet (ISS module)|''Rassvet'']] and [[Poisk (ISS module)|''Poisk'']] mini-research modules, Nauka conducts scientific experiments and stores research equipment.

Originally built as a backup for [[Zarya (ISS module)|''Zarya'']], the very first module of the ISS, ''Nauka''<nowiki/>'s construction was halted in the late 1990s, when it was about 70% complete. After exploring various options, [[Roscosmos]] decided to convert the partially completed module into a laboratory. While the initial target launch date was set for 2007, and outfitting equipment for Nauka was delivered by [[Space Shuttle]] ''[[Space Shuttle Atlantis|Atlantis]]'' in 2010 attached to the ''Rassvet'' module, numerous delays and technical issues delayed the launch by 14 years.

''Nauka'' finally launched on 21 July 2021 at 14:58:25{{nbsp}}[[Coordinated Universal Time|UTC]] from the [[Baikonur Cosmodrome]] atop a [[Proton-M]] rocket. Like most of the Russian modules, ''Nauka'' operated autonomously and after a flight lasting about eight days, ''Nauka'' docked to the nadir (Earth facing) port of the ''Zvezda'' module on 29 July 2021 at 13:29:01{{nbsp}}UTC. However, after docking, a software glitch led the module's thrusters to keep firing, causing the entire space station to flip over one and a half times, before the module ran out of fuel. The crew was able to null the rotation, and return the station to its normal orientation. While the situation was tense and NASA declared a "spacecraft emergency", they later said that the situation did not endanger the lives of the ISS crew.

The addition of ''Nauka'' is the first major expansion of the Russian Orbital Segment in over 20 years. Cosmonauts would conduct twelve spacewalks over two years outfitting the module with equipment, much of it brought aboard the ''Rassvet'' module in 2010 and [[Prichal (ISS module)|''Prichal'']], a multi-port docking module was added to ''Nauka'' in November 2021.

== Description ==
''Nauka'' is the primary [[laboratory]] of the [[Russian Orbital Segment]], operating in conjunction with the Mini-Research Modules ''[[Rassvet (ISS module)|Rassvet]]'' and ''[[Poisk (ISS module)|Poisk]]''. It is used to conduct experiments and store scientific instruments, and can also serve as a backup service module for the ISS.<ref name="SFN20200825"/><ref name="NSF20200819"/><ref>{{cite web|title=Nauka to feature three different docking ports (INSIDER CONTENT)|url=http://www.russianspaceweb.com/protected/mlm-docking.html |access-date=23 June 2021|website=russianspaceweb.com}}</ref> ''Nauka'' is based on the [[Functional Cargo Block]] (FGB) design. It is {{cvt|13.12|m}} long and {{cvt|4.25|m}} wide, and is made of [[stainless steel]], [[aluminium alloy]], [[kevlar]], and [[ceramic]]-wool [[Thermal insulation|insulation]], totalling a mass of {{cvt|20350|kg}}.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Многоцелевой лабораторный модуль "Наука" - Госкорпорация "Роскосмос" |trans-title=Multipurpose laboratory module "Nauka" - State Corporation "Roscosmos" |url=https://www.roscosmos.ru/31395/ |access-date=11 August 2021 |website=www.roscosmos.ru |language=ru}}</ref>

''Nauka'' has two [[SSVP docking system|SSVP-M]] [[Docking and berthing of spacecraft#Hardware|docking ports]]; the passive [[nadir]] port is used to attach ''[[Prichal (ISS module)|Prichal]]'' to the station, while the active [[zenith]] port is used to attach ''Nauka'' itself to the station via ''[[Zvezda (ISS module)|Zvezda]]''{{'}}s nadir port. SSVP-M is a hybrid variant of the [[SSVP docking system]] that combines its traditional probe‑and‑drogue soft-capture mechanism with the [[APAS-95]] hard-docking collar. While this is incompatible with Soyuz and Progress' standard SSVP-G ports, a temporary docking adapter SSVPA-GM that converts ''Nauka''{{'}}s nadir port from SSVP-M to SSVP-G was installed to allow them to dock. This adapter was removed upon the arrival of ''Prichal'' because, although it is the second module after ''Rassvet'' to use a port initially used by Soyuz or Progress spacecraft, it is not able to dock to SSVP-G ports like the ''Rassvet'' module. As a result, the ''Prichal'' module with its active hybrid docking port was only able to dock to the reconfigured port. With its docking, the number of docking ports on the ISS Russian Orbital Segment increased to eight.<ref name="auto">{{cite web |url=https://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2021/07/nauka-docking/|title=MLM Nauka docks to ISS, malfunctions shortly thereafter|last=Harding|first=Pete|publisher=NASASpaceFlight.com|date=29 July 2021|access-date=30 July 2021|archive-date=30 July 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210730130939/https://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2021/07/nauka-docking/|url-status=live}}</ref> Another one was an Active AS-G forward port to allow the Airlock ShK module to berth with Nauka.

Full guidance and navigation control, enabled by an [[Spacecraft attitude control|attitude control]] system using MDDK thrusters, provide roll control to the station using its advantageous position far from the station's fore-aft axis, which provides the greatest mechanical advantage for roll corrections of all the station's thruster-equipped modules. ''Nauka'' is also able to collect and store propellant delivered by Progress spacecraft and transfer it to ''Zvezda''.<ref>{{Cite AV media |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jTR5evpFLb4 |title=Russia's New Space Station Module Causes Alarm On ISS |date=30 July 2021 |last=Manley |first=Scott |access-date=31 July 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210731064753/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jTR5evpFLb4 |archive-date=31 July 2021 |url-status=live |via=YouTube}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=Nauka module as part of the ISS |url=https://www.roscosmos.ru/media/files/nauka.pdf|publisher=Roscosmos}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=European Robotic Arm Brochure |url=https://esamultimedia.esa.int/docs/science/ERA_brochure_EN.pdf|publisher=European Space Agency}}</ref>

The [[European Space Agency]]'s (ESA) [[European Robotic Arm]] located on ''Nauka''{{'}}s exterior enables the installation, removal or replacement of external experiment payloads; the transfer of payloads through the science airlock; and visual inspections of the station. It can support spacewalks by providing foot restraints, tether points, and control panels both on the inside and outside of the station. ''Nauka'' contains life support equipment including an oxygen production system capable of supporting six crew, a [[Galley (kitchen)|galley]], a toilet with a urine recycling system, and one of the three sleep stations aboard the Russian Orbital Segment.<ref name="gazetaru2011"/><ref name="AW20201105"/><ref>{{cite web|title=The Space Station is about to be so crowded that one astronaut will have to sleep in the SpaceX capsule|url=https://futurism.com/the-byte/iss-crowded-one-astronaut-sleep-spacex-capsule|access-date=12 August 2021|website=Futurism}}</ref> There is a large observation window similar to [[Destiny (ISS module)#Destiny nadir window|Destiny's nadir window]] for the crew on the aft side of the docking sphere, towards the nadir port,<ref>{{Cite web |title=Новости. Космонавт рассказал, что иллюминатор "Науки" позволит делать снимки Земли |trans-title=News. Cosmonaut said that the Nauka porthole will allow taking pictures of the Earth |url=https://www.roscosmos.ru/32147/ |access-date=12 August 2021 |website=roscosmos.ru |language=ru}}</ref> while one 9-inch-wide window hatch is on the forward port for the airlock module, similar to the two windows on the [[Kibō (ISS module)#Pressurized Module|Kibo Pressurized Module]].<ref>{{cite web|title=Finally, at Nauka we get to see an inside view of the small 9 inch observation porthole on the future scientific airlock temporary hatch. Note arrow in this view with Dubrov discussing it.|url=https://twitter.com/shuttlealmanac/status/1443119549411254274/photo/1|access-date=20 October 2021|website=Twitter}}</ref>
===Science (or Experiment) Airlock ShK===
[[File:Iss070e024781.jpg|thumb|Experiment Airlock berthed to Nauka, while egressing payloads onto the outside of the station ]]
The airlock, Shk, is designed for a payload with dimensions up to {{cvt|1200x500x500|mm}}, has a volume of {{val|2.1|u=m3}}, weight of 1050 kg and consumes 1.5 kW of power at the peak. Prior to berthing the MLM to the ISS, the airlock was stowed as part of [[Rassvet (ISS module)|MRM1]].<ref name="mrm1">{{Cite book |title=Reference Guide to the International Space Station|chapter=Mini-Research Module 1 (MRM1) Rassvet (Dawn)|url=https://www.nasa.gov/pdf/508318main_ISS_ref_guide_nov2010.pdf|page=62|date=November 2010|access-date=December 18, 2022}}</ref> On 4 May 2023, 01:00 UTC, the chamber was moved by the ERA manipulator and berthed to the forward active docking port of the pressurized docking hub of the Nauka module. It is intended to be used:
*for extracting payloads from the MLM docking adapter and placing them on the outer surface of the station;
*enable science investigations to be removed, exposed to the external space environment, then returned inside while being maneuvered with the European robotic arm.
*for receiving payloads from the ERA manipulator and moving them into the internal volume of the airlock and further into the MLM pressurized adapter;
*for conducting scientific experiments in the internal volume of the airlock;
*for conducting scientific experiments outside the lock chamber on an extended table and in a special organized place.<ref name="mrm1"/><ref>{{cite web |last=Новости |first=Р. И. А. |date=2022-05-17 |title=Выход российских космонавтов в открытый космос перенесли на лето |url=https://ria.ru/20220517/kosmos-1788938133.html |access-date=2022-11-25 |website=РИА Новости |language=ru}}</ref>
*for launching cubesats into space, with the aid of ERA{{snd}}very similar to the Japanese airlock and [[Nanoracks Bishop Airlock]] on the U.S. segment of the station.

== Development ==
[[File:ISS after completion (as of June 2006) (cropped).jpg|thumb|upright=1.0|right|A [[Russian Research Module]] docked to ''Zvezda'' (left) and MLM docked to ''Zarya'' (right) in an early 2000s concept.]]
[[File:MLM Nauka 1.jpg|thumb|upright=1.0|right|''Nauka'' undergoing tests at Khrunichev in July 2020, a month before it was shipped to Baikonur.]]

In the 1990s, Roscosmos' original plan for the Russian Orbital Segment included two [[Russian Research Module]]s and a [[Universal Docking Module]] based on the [[Functional Cargo Block|FGB]] design to be located at ''Zvezda''{{'}}s nadir port. A backup flight article for FGB-based ''[[Zarya (ISS module)|Zarya]]'', known in production as FGB-2, was originally planned to serve as the Universal Docking Module, though its construction had been halted at 70% completion in the late 1990s.<ref name="NSF20200819"/> By August 2004, Roscosmos decided to scrap the two research modules in favour of flying FGB-2 as a single research module known as ''Nauka''. A joint [[Astrotech Corporation|Astrotech]]-[[Energia (corporation)|Energia]] concept for a Commercial Enterprise Module-based ''Nauka'', proposed to Roscosmos around this time, was rejected.<ref name="Zak">{{cite web|url=http://www.russianspaceweb.com/iss_russia.html|title=Russian segment of the ISS|first=Anatoly|last=Zak|publisher=RussianSpaceWeb.com|date=20 November 1998|access-date=3 October 2009|archive-date=20 April 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090420125033/http://www.russianspaceweb.com/iss_russia.html|url-status=live}}</ref> In 2005, Roscosmos brokered a deal with the ESA to launch their European Robotic Arm with ''Nauka'', with its spare elbow joint to launch with ''[[Rassvet (ISS module)|Rassvet]]''.<ref>{{cite web|date=9 April 2009|title=STS-132: PRCB baselines Atlantis' mission to deliver Russia's MRM-1|url=https://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2009/04/sts-132-prcb-baselines-mission-to-deliver-russias-mrm-1/|access-date=21 July 2021|publisher=NASASpaceFlight.com|archive-date=1 July 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190701023110/https://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2009/04/sts-132-prcb-baselines-mission-to-deliver-russias-mrm-1/|url-status=live}}</ref>

While Roscosmos had originally hoped ''Nauka'' would be ready for launch by 2007, multiple delays pushed the prospective launch date back progressively to 2014.<ref name="gazetaru2011">{{cite web|url=http://www.gazeta.ru/social/2011/10/19/3806658.shtml|language=ru|title=Новые деньги под старую "Науку"|trans-title=New money for the old "Science"|first=Alina|last=Chernoivanova|website=gazeta.ru|date=19 October 2011|access-date=1 February 2012|archive-date=22 January 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120122001259/http://www.gazeta.ru/social/2011/10/19/3806658.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.aviationweek.com/Article.aspx?id=/article-xml/asd_05_23_2012_p05-01-460939.xml|title=Russia Sees Moon Base As Logical Next Step|last=Morring|first=Frank|date=23 May 2012|publisher=Aviation Week|access-date=29 May 2012|archive-date=12 November 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121112034945/http://www.aviationweek.com/Article.aspx?id=%2Farticle-xml%2Fasd_05_23_2012_p05-01-460939.xml|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="dec13">{{cite web|url=http://www.astronews.ru/cgi-bin/mng.cgi?page=news&news=4508|language=ru|title=О запусках новых российских модулей МКС|trans-title=About launches of new Russian modules to the ISS|date=24 August 2013|access-date=25 August 2013|archive-date=29 October 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131029200937/http://www.astronews.ru/cgi-bin/mng.cgi?page=news&news=4508|url-status=live}}</ref> Acceptance tests of ''Nauka'' in late 2013 found leaks in the propulsion system's fueling valve and contamination,<ref name="rsw">{{cite web|url=http://www.russianspaceweb.com/iss_fgb2.html|title=MLM Nauka (FGB-2) to expand the International Space Station |first1=Anatoly|last1=Zak|first2=Alain|last2=Chabot|website=RussianSpaceWeb|date=25 October 2013|access-date=7 April 2021|archive-date=19 June 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140619143627/http://www.russianspaceweb.com/iss_fgb2.html|url-status=live}}</ref> so Energia returned the module to [[Khrunichev State Research and Production Space Center|Khrunichev]] for twelve to eighteen months of repairs.<ref name="ria20131127">{{cite web |url=http://ria.ru/space/20131127/980030598.html|language=ru|title=Роскосмос сообщил НАСА, что модуль МЛМ не войдет в состав МКС в 2014 г.|trans-title=Roscosmos has informed NASA that the MLM module will not join ISS in 2014|agency=RIA Novosti|date=27 November 2013|access-date=28 November 2013|archive-date=4 December 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131204104621/http://ria.ru/space/20131127/980030598.html|url-status=live}}</ref> ''Nauka''{{'}}s prospective 2015 launch was delayed again after more fuel valve leaks damaged the module's exterior plumbing, necessitating its replacement.<ref name="rsw"/><ref>{{cite web|url=http://en.ria.ru/russia/20131127/185078995/Russia-Postpones-Space-Lab-Launch-Again.html|title=Russia Postpones Space Lab Launch Again|agency=RIA Novosti|date=27 November 2013|access-date=9 April 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140413154545/http://en.ria.ru/russia/20131127/185078995/Russia-Postpones-Space-Lab-Launch-Again.html|archive-date=13 April 2014|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref name="nsf20190703">{{cite web|last=Atkinson|first=Ian |url=https://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2019/07/russia-iss-expansion/|title=Russia pressing forward on ISS expansion|publisher=NASASpaceFlight.com|date=3 July 2019|access-date=5 July 2019|archive-date=5 July 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190705075112/https://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2019/07/russia-iss-expansion/|url-status=live}}</ref> Metallic dust contamination in the module's fuel tanks in 2017 caused three more years of delays, as initial repairs were unsuccessful,<ref name="3dnews">{{cite web|url=https://3dnews.ru/942263|language=ru|title=Запуск лабораторного модуля "Наука" к МКС откладывается|trans-title=Launch of the Nauka laboratory module to the ISS postponed|first=Sergey|last=Karasev|date=7 November 2016|access-date=13 January 2017|archive-date=18 January 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170118041920/https://3dnews.ru/942263|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="PM20170322">{{cite web|url=https://www.popularmechanics.com/space/satellites/a25773/mlm-delayed-russia/|title=This Russian ISS Module Has Been Delayed For a Decade and It's Still Not Ready to Fly|publisher=Popular Mechanics|author=Zak, Anatoly|date=22 March 2017|access-date=20 August 2020|archive-date=20 September 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200920215605/https://www.popularmechanics.com/space/satellites/a25773/mlm-delayed-russia/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="tass20180816">{{cite web|url=http://tass.com/science/1017479|title=Research module Nauka to be launched to ISS in November 2019|agency=TASS|date=16 August 2018|access-date=20 August 2018|archive-date=20 August 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180820235159/http://tass.com/science/1017479|url-status=live}}</ref> and the installation of a new single-use fuel system based on the [[Fregat|Fregat upper stage]] was considered as a solution.<ref name="nsf20190703"/><ref>{{cite web |url=https://tass.ru/kosmos/6225559|language=ru|title=Источник: на модуль МКС "Наука" поставят баки от разгонного блока "Фрегат"|trans-title=Tanks from the "Fregat" upper stage will be put on the ISS "Nauka" module"|agency=TASS|date=16 March 2019|access-date=17 March 2019|archive-date=17 March 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190317144903/https://tass.ru/kosmos/6225559|url-status=live}}</ref> However, in late 2019, the original tanks were successfully repaired, rendering the planned Fregat-based tanks redundant and paving the way for a 2019 or 2020 launch.<ref>{{cite web|title=Источник: модуль "Наука" планируют отправить на Байконур 15 января 2020 года|trans-title=Source: "Science" module is planned to be sent to Baikonur on 15 January 2020 |agency=TASS|url=https://tass.ru/kosmos/7009899|language=ru|website=tass.ru|date=17 October 2019|access-date=17 October 2019|archive-date=17 October 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191017072757/https://tass.ru/kosmos/7009899|url-status=live}}</ref>

Targeting an early-to-mid-2020 launch, ''Nauka''<nowiki/>'s [[Proton-M]] launch vehicle was assembled and shipped to the [[Baikonur Cosmodrome]] in February.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://tass.com/science/1122807 |title=Russia's Proton-M rocket ready to deliver Nauka research lab to space station|agency=TASS|access-date=3 April 2020|archive-date=22 March 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200322022524/https://tass.com/science/1122807|url-status=live}}</ref> However, ''Nauka'' needed another fuel tank valve replacement, along with further tests necessitated by an expiring warranty following years of delays. The testing – which could only take place at Energia in Russia instead of [[Kazakhstan]], where Baikonur is located – was completed in May 2020, around the same time the new fuel tank valves were shipped to Baikonur.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://tass.com/science/1116085|title=Launch of Nauka module in November hardly possible, says Roscosmos chief|agency=TASS|access-date=3 April 2020|archive-date=26 September 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200926051118/https://tass.com/science/1116085|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://tass.ru/kosmos/7585127|title=Отправку модуля "Наука" на Байконур перенесли на март из-за работ с топливными баками|date=23 January 2020|agency=TASS|language=Ru|trans-title=Sending the Science module to Baikonur was postponed to March due to work with fuel tanks|url-status=live|access-date=29 January 2020|archive-date=6 February 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200206234120/https://tass.ru/kosmos/7585127}}</ref> Efforts to launch ''Nauka'' were affected by the [[COVID-19 pandemic in Europe|outbreak of COVID-19 in Europe]] in early 2020, which led to suspension of all work in March, April, and July, and a sizeable reduction in workforce throughout the year, as part of measures to prevent the potential spread of the disease.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://tass.com/science/1139385|title=Russia postpones launch of Nauka research module to orbital outpost to 2021|agency=TASS|access-date=3 April 2020|archive-date=23 April 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200423193730/https://tass.com/science/1139385|url-status=live}}</ref> ''Nauka'' finally arrived in Baikonur in August 2020, along with its solar panels and the European Robotic Arm shortly afterwards.<ref name="NSF20200819"/><ref>{{cite web|title=Nauka module is being installed at the workstation|url=https://www.energia.ru/en/news/news-2020/news_08-26.html|access-date=30 December 2020 |website=energia.ru|archive-date=1 October 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201001044518/https://www.energia.ru/en/news/news-2020/news_08-26.html|url-status=live}}</ref> The loading of cargo and supplies onto ''Nauka'' began on 11 September 2020, while its [[Space debris|MMOD]] armor and batteries were installed.<ref>{{cite web|title=Новости. На Байконуре продолжается подготовка модуля "Наука" к запуску|trans-title=Baikonur continues to prepare the "Science" module for launch|url=https://www.roscosmos.ru/29202/|website=roscosmos.ru|access-date=16 September 2020|archive-date=16 September 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200916062547/http://www.roscosmos.ru/29202/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=Nauka module pre-launch processing is in good progress at Baikonur |url=https://www.energia.ru/en/news/news-2020/news_09-11.html|access-date=30 December 2020|website=energia.ru|archive-date=1 December 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201201054510/https://www.energia.ru/en/news/news-2020/news_09-11.html|url-status=live}}</ref> Throughout October and November 2020, [[Expedition 65]] cosmonauts [[Pyotr Dubrov]] and [[Oleg Novitsky]], who were to be responsible for ''Nauka''{{'}}s installation to the station in orbit via numerous [[Extravehicular activity|extravehicular activities]], conducted two Crew Equipment Interface Tests during which the module was powered on for the first time with various components deployed, and the cosmonauts inspected and toured the vehicle's exterior.<ref>{{cite web |title=Новости. Дублирующий экипаж МКС-64 провел занятие на модуле "Наука"|trans-title=ISS-64 backup crew conducted a lesson on the Nauka module|url=https://www.roscosmos.ru/29389/|access-date=11 October 2020 |website=roscosmos.ru|archive-date=22 October 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201022202644/http://www.roscosmos.ru/29389/|url-status=live}}</ref>

By November 2020, ''Nauka'' had been put through 306 of the 754 tests needed before it could be processed for launch,<ref>{{cite web|title=Новости. Продолжаются испытания модуля "Наука" |trans-title=Testing of the "Science" module continues|url=https://www.roscosmos.ru/29523/|access-date=9 November 2020|website=roscosmos.ru|archive-date=9 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201109124543/https://www.roscosmos.ru/29523/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=Nauka module testing continues|url=https://www.energia.ru/en/news/news-2020/news_11-03.html|access-date=30 December 2020|website=energia.ru|archive-date=27 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201127032435/https://www.energia.ru/en/news/news-2020/news_11-03.html|url-status=live}}</ref> and by January 2021 80% of the tests were complete.<ref name="o1">{{cite web|title=Новости. На космодроме Байконур продолжаются испытания модуля "Наука"|trans-title=Testing of the "Science" module continues at the Baikonur cosmodrome|url=https://www.roscosmos.ru/29825/|access-date=24 January 2021|website=roscosmos.ru|archive-date=28 January 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210128154216/https://www.roscosmos.ru/29825/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="o2">{{cite web|title=Nauka module testing continues at Baikonur Cosmodrome |url=http://en.roscosmos.ru/21870/|access-date=24 January 2021|website=en.roscosmos.ru|archive-date=21 January 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210121073853/http://en.roscosmos.ru/21870/|url-status=live}}</ref> Throughout January and February, ''Nauka''{{'}}s tanks, thrusters, and [[Kurs (docking navigation system)|automated docking system]] underwent final testing, along with the European Robotic Arm.<ref name="o1"/><ref name="o2"/><ref>{{cite web|title=ISS-65 crew passed the Nauka module exam manual teleoperator mode|url=http://en.roscosmos.ru/21935/|access-date=4 March 2021|website=en.roscosmos.ru |archive-date=26 July 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210726182226/http://en.roscosmos.ru/21935/|url-status=live}}</ref> In March, two more Crew Equipment Interface Tests with Dubrov and Novitsky took place,<ref>{{cite web|title=Soyuz MS-18 spacecraft crews train in the Nauka module|url=http://en.roscosmos.ru/22021/|access-date=30 March 2021|website=en.roscosmos.ru|archive-date=29 March 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210329112311/http://en.roscosmos.ru/22021/|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=РКК "Энергия" - Новости - Экипажи корабля "Союз МС-18" провели тренировки на модуле "Наука"|trans-title=New crew of the Soyuz MS-18 spacecraft conducted training on the Nauka module |url=https://www.energia.ru/ru/news/news-2021/news_03-26_1.html|access-date=30 March 2021|website=energia.ru|archive-date=26 July 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210726182225/https://www.energia.ru/ru/news/news-2021/news_03-26_1.html|url-status=live}}</ref> and ''Nauka''{{'}}s launch was delayed one final time from May to July 2021, following further COVID-19-related restrictions and complications with traffic on the International Space Station.<ref name="rsw20210209"/><ref name="AWST20201026"/><ref>{{cite web|title=Launch Of Russias Nauka Module To Space Station Likely To Be Postponed - Flight Schedule|url=https://www.urdupoint.com/en/technology/launch-of-russias-nauka-module-to-space-stat-1119039.html|access-date=30 December 2020|publisher=UrduPoint |archive-date=7 January 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210107111910/https://www.urdupoint.com/en/technology/launch-of-russias-nauka-module-to-space-stat-1119039.html|url-status=live}}</ref> In May, ''Nauka'' passed Roscosmos' flight readiness review,<ref>{{cite web|title=Новости. Совет главных конструкторов в РКК "Энергия"|trans-title=Board of Chief Designers at RSC Energia |url=https://www.roscosmos.ru/31248/|access-date=28 May 2021|website=roscosmos.ru|archive-date=26 May 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210526093929/https://www.roscosmos.ru/31248/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=ISS Nauka module passes trials, permission for launch granted — Roscosmos |url=https://tass.com/science/1293921|agency=TASS|access-date=1 June 2021|archive-date=31 May 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210531032643/https://tass.com/science/1293921|url-status=live}}</ref> underwent a final round of pressurization and leak tests, and the SSVP docking adapter, the solar panels, and the European Robotic Arm were attached to the module's exterior.<ref>{{cite web|title=Новости. На Байконуре завершены пневмовакуумные испытания модуля "Наука"|trans-title=Pneumatic vacuum tests of the "Science" module completed at Baikonur|url=https://www.roscosmos.ru/31030/|access-date=12 May 2021|website=roscosmos.ru|archive-date=12 May 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210512220354/https://www.roscosmos.ru/31030/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=Новости. Модуль "Наука" оснащен европейским манипулятором ERA|trans-title=The "Science" module is equipped with the European manipulator ERA|url=https://www.roscosmos.ru/31070/|access-date=22 May 2021|website=roscosmos.ru|archive-date=20 May 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210520121759/http://www.roscosmos.ru/31070/|url-status=live}}</ref> One final Crew Equipment Interface Test was conducted with cosmonaut [[Aleksandr Skvortsov (cosmonaut)|Aleksandr Skvortsov]] and his backup [[Sergey Prokopyev (cosmonaut)|Sergey Prokopyev]] before ''Nauka''<nowiki/>'s encapsulation in the Proton-M's [[payload fairing]] in June.<ref>{{cite web|title=Новости. На Байконуре космонавтов ознакомили с устройством модуля "Наука"|trans-title=At Baikonur, cosmonauts were introduced to the structure of the "Science" module|url=https://www.roscosmos.ru/31365/|access-date=7 June 2021|website=roscosmos.ru|archive-date=7 June 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210607063407/https://www.roscosmos.ru/31365/|url-status=live}}</ref> On 28 June, ''Nauka'' was successfully mated with its Proton-M launch vehicle and rolled out to [[Baikonur Cosmodrome Site 200|Site 200]] on 17 July.<ref>{{cite web|title=Новости. Сборка космической головной части модуля "Наука"|trans-title=Assembly of the space head of the module "Science"|url=https://www.roscosmos.ru/31667/|access-date=29 June 2021 |website=roscosmos.ru|archive-date=29 June 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210629061631/https://www.roscosmos.ru/31667/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Новости. Модуль "Наука" состыкован с промежуточным отсеком|trans-title=Module "Science" docked with the intermediate compartment|url=https://www.roscosmos.ru/31590/|access-date=22 June 2021 |website=roscosmos.ru|archive-date=22 June 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210622053034/http://www.roscosmos.ru/31590/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=РКК "Энергия" - Новости - Модуль "Наука" состыкован с промежуточным отсеком|trans-title=Module "Science" docked with the intermediate compartment|url=https://www.energia.ru/ru/news/news-2021/news_06-21.html|access-date=22 June 2021 |website=energia.ru|archive-date=21 June 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210621173533/https://www.energia.ru/ru/news/news-2021/news_06-21.html|url-status=live}}</ref>

== Launch ==
[[File:The rollout of Proton-M rocket with MLM-U Nauka.jpg|thumb|upright=1.0|right|The rollout of the Proton-M rocket with ''Nauka'']]

On 2 May 2021, the launch schedule was posted online; it involved the launch of [[Progress MS-17]] on 30 June to deliver outfitting hardware to the station and plugs to fix the leak in the ''Zvezda'' service module. Before it docked, Novitsky and Dubrov performed a spacewalk to remove equipment and cables from [[Pirs (ISS module)|''Pirs'']] in preparation for undocking.<ref>{{cite web|title=Cosmonauts Finish Spacewalk to Ready Station for New Module – Space Station|url=https://blogs.nasa.gov/spacestation/2021/06/02/cosmonauts-finish-spacewalk-to-ready-station-for-new-module/|access-date=5 June 2021|website=blogs.nasa.gov|date=2 June 2021 |archive-date=4 June 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210604072221/https://blogs.nasa.gov/spacestation/2021/06/02/cosmonauts-finish-spacewalk-to-ready-station-for-new-module/|url-status=live}} {{PD-notice}}</ref> Site 200, from which ''Nauka'' and its Proton-M were to launch, were modified to supply chilled air and fuel the vehicle as it sat on the pad; the same modifications were made to [[Baikonur Cosmodrome Site 81|Site 81]] when ''[[Mir Core Module|Mir]]'', ''Zarya'', and ''Zvezda'' were launched from it.<ref>{{cite web|title=Новости. На Байконуре дооснащают стартовый комплекс перед запуском модуля "Наука"|trans-title=Baikonur launch complex reequipped for the Nauka module launch|url=https://www.roscosmos.ru/31046/|access-date=17 May 2021|website=roscosmos.ru |archive-date=14 May 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210514165126/https://www.roscosmos.ru/31046/|url-status=live}}</ref> On 7 June, work at Site 200 was completed in preparation for the assembly of the launch vehicle and the rollout of ''Nauka'' to Pad 39 at the facility.<ref>{{cite web|title=Новости. На Байконуре началась подготовка стартового комплекса РКН "Протон-М"|trans-title=At Baikonur, the preparation of the launch complex of the ILV "Proton-M" has begun|url=https://www.roscosmos.ru/31376/|access-date=7 June 2021|website=roscosmos.ru|archive-date=7 June 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210607095623/https://www.roscosmos.ru/31376/|url-status=live}}</ref>

On 30 June 2021, fueling began, but a problem with the spacecraft's guidance sensors was detected and ''Nauka'' was rolled back to the instrumentation and test facility at Site 254. The upper fairing was removed and rolled away while workers using safety harnesses changed and replaced the sensors and reinstalled the MLI. On 1 July, more imperfections were found requiring a full scrub down and systems had to be removed and replaced.<ref>{{cite web|title=Модуль "Наука" для МКС вернули в монтажно-испытательный корпус для устранения замечания|url=https://tass.ru/kosmos/11803317|access-date=25 July 2021|agency=ТАSS|archive-date=1 July 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210701172321/https://tass.ru/kosmos/11803317|url-status=live}}</ref> On 3 July, the fairing was reattached and ''Nauka'' was powered on to test the sensors before it was reloaded onto the transfer car and redelivered to the airlock where it was placed on a flatcar for delivery to Site 31 for fueling.

On 9 July 2021, ILS completed stacking of the Proton rocket at Site 200 and all three of the lower stages were fueled and standing by for the arrival of ''Nauka''. Because of delays with rewrapping the sensors, rollout was scheduled for 17 July with launch on the 21st.<ref>{{cite web|title=Новости. Завершена подготовка ракеты-носителя "Протон-М" к сборке ракеты космического назначения |url=https://www.roscosmos.ru/31828/|access-date=10 July 2021|website=roscosmos.ru|archive-date=10 July 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210710013324/https://www.roscosmos.ru/31828/|url-status=live}}</ref> Also on 9 July, teams from ILS, Khrunichev, Roscosmos, Energia, and Yuzhny Space Center conducted a dry countdown to test the new computers and systems at Site 200 which would control ''Nauka'' and feed it and the Proton rocket telemetry through the first 12 minutes of flight up until first stage separation and fairing jettison, where telemetry would be controlled from ground stations and from [[RKA Mission Control Center|Mission Control Moscow]].<ref>{{cite web|title=Proton launch complex retrofit completed at Baikonur|url=http://en.roscosmos.ru/22216/|access-date=11 July 2021 |website=en.roscosmos.ru|archive-date=11 July 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210711085017/http://en.roscosmos.ru/22216/|url-status=live}}</ref> On 10 July, ''Nauka'' was fueled and the aft compartment was closed out in preparation for the transfer to Site 200 to be attached to the Proton rocket.<ref>{{cite web|title=Nauka module to ISS filled up with fuel, no remarks - Roscosmos chief |url=https://tass.com/science/1312673|access-date=13 July 2021|agency=TASS|archive-date=13 July 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210713110606/https://tass.com/science/1312673|url-status=live}}</ref> Launch was scheduled for 21 July at 14:58 [[Coordinated Universal Time|UTC]].<ref>{{cite web|first=Leonard |last=David|title=Russia's new Nauka module readied for launch to International Space Station|date=12 July 2021|url=https://www.space.com/russia-nauka-space-station-module-readied-for-launch|access-date=13 July 2021|publisher=SPACE.com|archive-date=13 July 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210713124156/https://www.space.com/russia-nauka-space-station-module-readied-for-launch|url-status=live}}</ref>

On 13 July 2021, Novitsky and Dubrov carried out work on the ''Pirs'' module, splitting up the hydraulic circuit and module control communications via the Progress spacecraft, and checked the docking unit and its systems. In this process they closed the ''Pirs'' module hatch that was connected to the ''Zvezda'' service module, after which ''Pirs'' was ultimately undocked on 23 July.<!--see this citation where the second image shows that the Pirs module hatch is closed--><ref>{{cite web|title=Новости. Модуль "Пирс" готовят к расстыковке|url=https://www.roscosmos.ru/31865/|access-date=14 July 2021|website=roscosmos.ru|archive-date=14 July 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210714173910/https://www.roscosmos.ru/31865/|url-status=live}}</ref> Also on 13 July, Roscosmos revealed the mission patch for ''Nauka'' which was in the process of being painted on the fairing and on the Proton launch vehicle itself. A smaller mission patch was flown inside, attached to the wall with [[Velcro]].<ref>{{cite web|title=Nauka module patch|url=http://en.roscosmos.ru/22220/|access-date=14 July 2021|website=en.roscosmos.ru|archive-date=13 July 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210713200344/http://en.roscosmos.ru/22220/|url-status=live}}</ref> On 14 July, Roscosmos revealed the website for ''Nauka'' and began the countdown for launch. A spacewalk was to be performed on 8 September by Novitsky and Dubrov to remove thermal shrouds for the ERA and the hardware launched on ''Rassvet'' including ''Nauka''{{'}}s docking ball and the transfer compartment. This would free up ports for the Science airlock and the RTOd radiator and will allow the ERA to retrieve its boom which was stowed on the ''Rassvet'' module. When ''Nauka'' arrived, the ERA's first task after the Russian spacewalk was to grapple the airlock and the radiator and install them, with Novitsky and Dubrov bolting them down and routing cables and piping in preparation for their deployment at the end of the spacewalk.<ref>{{cite web|title=Multipurpose laboratory module "Science"|url=https://www.roscosmos.ru/31395/|access-date=14 July 2021|website=roscosmos.ru|language=russian|archive-date=14 July 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210714161136/https://www.roscosmos.ru/31395/|url-status=live}}</ref> On the same day, the [[Proton-M]] rocket received ''Nauka'' at Site 92. Rollout was slated for 17 July.<ref>{{cite web|title=Новости. На Байконуре проходит сборка ракеты космического назначения "Протон-М"|url=https://www.roscosmos.ru/31858/|access-date=14 July 2021|website=roscosmos.ru|archive-date=14 July 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210714173512/https://www.roscosmos.ru/31858/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="Roscosmos1">{{cite web|title=Многоцелевой лабораторный модуль "Наука" |url=https://www.roscosmos.ru/31395/|url-status=live|access-date=14 July 2021|website=roscosmos.ru|archive-date=14 July 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210714161136/https://www.roscosmos.ru/31395/}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=Nauka to feature three different docking ports (INSIDER CONTENT) |url=http://www.russianspaceweb.com/protected/mlm-docking.html|access-date=23 June 2021|website=russianspaceweb.com}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=Proton-M space rocket to be rolled out to Site 200 launch complex on July 17|url=http://en.roscosmos.ru/22226/|access-date=17 July 2021|website=en.roscosmos.ru|archive-date=17 July 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210717035834/http://en.roscosmos.ru/22226/|url-status=live}}</ref>

In the early morning hours of 17 July 2021, ''Nauka'' was loaded onto a rail transporter erector and was rolled out to Pad 39 at Site 200. Over the next few days ''Nauka'' was checked out before its launch on 21 July at 14:58 UTC.<ref>{{cite web|title=Новости. "Наука" на старте|url=https://www.roscosmos.ru/31907/|access-date=18 July 2021|website=roscosmos.ru|archive-date=18 July 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210718001822/https://www.roscosmos.ru/31907/|url-status=live}}</ref> On 19 July, a launch dress rehearsal was conducted to test the systems. With 48 hours remaining in the launch window everything remained go for an on-time liftoff. On the station, ''Pirs'' was loaded with garbage and the hatch was closed and locked for the last time in preparation for undocking.<ref>{{cite web|title=Новости. Третий стартовый день на Байконуре|url=https://www.roscosmos.ru/31910/|access-date=19 July 2021|website=roscosmos.ru|archive-date=19 July 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210719084124/https://www.roscosmos.ru/31910/|url-status=live}}</ref> On 20 July, ''Nauka'' had its final launch dress rehearsal, During which it was powered on and the Proton flight computer was activated to test the ground launch sequencer. While this was going on, technicians from Roscosmos and ILS connected the umbilical cables and fueling and vent lines to the rocket. After the Launch Readiness Review (LRR) in which Rogozin sat down with senior staff to conduct the go/no-go poll, the Proton was fueled and the countdown proceeded to launch. ''Nauka'' successfully lifted off from the pad on 21 July at 14:58:25 UTC.<ref>{{cite web|title=Новости. Подготовка "Науки" — идет четвёртый стартовый день|url=https://www.roscosmos.ru/31925/|access-date=20 July 2021 |website=roscosmos.ru|archive-date=20 July 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210720072207/https://www.roscosmos.ru/31925/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=Liftoff! Multipurpose Laboratory Module "Nauka" Launches to Space Station|url=https://blogs.nasa.gov/spacestation/2021/07/21/liftoff-multipurpose-laboratory-module-nauka-launches-to-space-station/|access-date=21 July 2021|website=blogs.nasa.gov|date=21 July 2021 |publisher=NASA|archive-date=21 July 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210721162126/https://blogs.nasa.gov/spacestation/2021/07/21/liftoff-multipurpose-laboratory-module-nauka-launches-to-space-station/|url-status=live}} {{PD-notice}}</ref>

== Transit phase and docking ==
[[File:Passive hybrid docking system - from another angle.jpg|thumb|upright=1.0|right|''Zvezda'' nadir port, the docking location of ''Nauka'']]

Several problems occurred after the launch, including loss of telemetry and issues with the main propulsion system.<ref>{{cite web|title=По телеметрии "Науки" заподозрили сбои в топливной системе |url=https://nplus1.ru/news/2021/07/22/mlm-fuel|access-date=22 July 2021|website=nplus1.ru|archive-date=22 July 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210722175615/https://nplus1.ru/news/2021/07/22/mlm-fuel|url-status=live}}</ref> On 22 July 2021, the ''Nauka'' Multipurpose Module Flight Control Group specialists at Mission Control Moscow conducted two correction maneuvers. The first maneuver took place at 15:07 UTC with the module engines' burn for 17.23 seconds giving an impulse of 1&nbsp;m/s. The second burn for 250.04 seconds took place at 17:19 UTC with an impulse of 14.59&nbsp;m/s. By then, the telemetry confirmed the propulsion system's operability.

Additional burns for further orbit correction were scheduled for 23 July 2021.<ref>{{cite web|title=Specialists have worked out test corrections of the orbit of the Nauka module |url=http://en.roscosmos.ru/22238/|access-date=23 July 2021|website=en.roscosmos.ru|archive-date=23 July 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210723010643/http://en.roscosmos.ru/22238/|url-status=live}}</ref> On 23 July, ''Nauka'' conducted the third and fourth burn in its approach. Because of the burn duration and ''Nauka''{{'}}s location in orbit two more burns seemed needed to get it back into plane. Because of this the undocking of ''Pirs'' was pushed back by 12 hours with the new undocking time scheduled for 25 July.<ref>{{cite web|title=UNDOCKING OF PROGRESS MS-16 AND PIRS DOCKING COMPARTMENT FROM ISS, 25 July 2021|url=https://spacepolicyonline.com/events/undocking-of-progress-ms-16-and-pirs-docking-compartment-from-iss-july-23-2021-earth-orbit-917-am-et/|access-date=24 July 2021|archive-date=24 July 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210724054405/https://spacepolicyonline.com/events/undocking-of-progress-ms-16-and-pirs-docking-compartment-from-iss-july-23-2021-earth-orbit-917-am-et/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=Новости. ЦУП провел две коррекции орбиты модуля "Наука"|url=https://www.roscosmos.ru/31993/|access-date=24 July 2021|website=roscosmos.ru|archive-date=24 July 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210724054406/https://www.roscosmos.ru/31993/|url-status=live}}</ref>

By mid-day 24 July 2021, the issues with ''Nauka'' propulsion had further postponed the schedule for undocking ''Pirs'' by another day, to 26 July. On 26 July at 10:55 UTC, ''Pirs'' undocked from the ISS for the last time. Roscosmos sent the deorbit command and ''Pirs'' entered the atmosphere over the Pacific Ocean at 14:01 UTC in a 17-minute burn. Self-destruct came at 15:04 UTC and ''Pirs'' and the trash that was inside it burned up as it entered the atmosphere over the Pacific, the first ISS module to be decommissioned and destroyed.<ref>{{cite web|last=Moran|first=Norah|title=Progress 77 and Pirs Undocked from Station|url=https://blogs.nasa.gov/spacestation/2021/07/26/progress-77-and-pirs-undocked-from-station/|access-date=26 July 2021|website=blogs.nasa.gov|date=26 July 2021 |archive-date=26 July 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210726125441/https://blogs.nasa.gov/spacestation/2021/07/26/progress-77-and-pirs-undocked-from-station/|url-status=live}} {{PD-notice}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2021/07/farewell-pirs/|title=Farewell, Pirs; ISS module decommissioned, destructively reentered|last=Gebhardt|first=Chris|publisher=NASASpaceFlight.com|date=25 July 2021 |access-date=26 July 2021|archive-date=26 July 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210726125659/https://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2021/07/farewell-pirs/|url-status=live}}</ref>

Hours after undocking, [[Mobile Servicing System|Canadarm2]] grappled ''Zarya'' and performed an inspection of ''Zvezda''. No debris was detected and the latches were safely retracted. No additional spacewalk was needed and the space station was ready to receive ''Nauka'' on 29 July 2021.

On 27 July 2021, specialists of the ''Nauka'' flight control group at the Mission Control Center carried out a routine corrective maneuver for the module.<ref>{{cite web|title=Mission Control Center conducted yet another Nauka module orbit correction|url=http://en.roscosmos.ru/22246/|access-date=28 July 2021|website=en.roscosmos.ru|archive-date=28 July 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210728215055/http://en.roscosmos.ru/22246/|url-status=live}}</ref> The final orbit correction to put ''Nauka'' on a rendezvous path with ISS was performed on 28 July at 16:43:07 UTC with a single firing of the main engines.<ref>{{cite web |title=Final Nauka module orbit correction conducted before docking with ISS|url=http://en.roscosmos.ru/22247/|access-date=28 July 2021|website=en.roscosmos.ru|archive-date=28 July 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210728223615/http://en.roscosmos.ru/22247/|url-status=live}}</ref>
[[File:Nauka docked to ISS.jpg|thumb|Nauka docked to ISS]]
On 29 July 2021, ''Nauka'' successfully automatically docked and was attached to the station at 13:29 UTC, and was put to work on the station by the crew.<ref>{{cite web|title=Nauka module at the ISS!|url=http://en.roscosmos.ru/22248/|access-date=30 July 2021|website=en.roscosmos.ru|archive-date=30 July 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210730002100/http://en.roscosmos.ru/22248/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=New Module Successfully Docks to Space Station |url=https://blogs.nasa.gov/spacestation/2021/07/29/new-module-successfully-docks-to-space-station/|access-date=30 July 2021|website=blogs.nasa.gov|date=29 July 2021 |archive-date=30 July 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210730051404/https://blogs.nasa.gov/spacestation/2021/07/29/new-module-successfully-docks-to-space-station/|url-status=live}} {{PD-notice}}</ref>

== Post-docking activities ==
=== Thruster glitches after docking ===
[[File:ISS-65 Nauka docks to the International Space Station (2).jpg|thumb|upright=1.0|right|''Nauka'' approaching its docking port]]

A few hours after docking while the crew were performing leak checks in preparation for hatch opening, ''Nauka''<nowiki/>'s onboard computers experienced a software glitch, due to which an erroneous direct command fired onboard thrusters, causing the ISS to rotate out of orientation unexpectedly. NASA and Roscosmos ground controllers worked to remotely fix the glitch issue, while at the same time instructing the crew to close all window shutters and stand-by for computer reboot. Controllers initially attempted to counteract the inadvertent thrust through the use of thrusters on the ''Zvezda'' service module, a job later transferred to the [[Progress MS-17]] vehicle. The station made one and a half complete rotations over the next 44 minutes, after which ''Nauka'' burned through its remaining fuel and Mission Control Moscow disabled the engines.<ref name="nyt-20210802">{{cite news |last=Chang |first=Kenneth |date=2 August 2021 |title=It Was His Day Off. Then the Space Station Went for a Spin. |url=https://www.nytimes.com./2021/08/02/science/nasa-space-station-zebulon-scoville.html |url-access=registration |access-date=2 August 2021 |newspaper=The New York Times |quote=In an interview, Mr. Scoville described how the International Space Station spun one-and-a-half revolutions — about 540 degrees — before coming to a stop upside down. The space station then did a 180-degree forward flip to get back to its original orientation. The seven astronauts aboard were never in danger, Mr. Scoville said, and the situation did not spiral out of control. Still, in seven years as a NASA flight director, this was the first time that Mr. Scoville had declared a "spacecraft emergency".}}</ref><ref name="spo-20210730">{{cite web |last=Smith |first=Marcia |date=30 July 2021 |title=Russia Blames Software Error For Nauka Misfire |url=https://spacepolicyonline.com/news/russia-blames-software-error-for-nauka-misfire/ |access-date=2 August 2021 |publisher=Space Policy Online}}</ref> ''Nauka''<nowiki/>'s control system was transferred from flight mode to "docked with the ISS" mode, and thrust control was returned to Progress MS-17 and ''Zvezda'', allowing attitude control of the station to be regained.<ref name="nsf20210729">{{cite web|last=Harding|first=Pete|date=29 July 2021 |title=MLM Nauka docks to ISS, malfunctions shortly thereafter|url=https://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2021/07/nauka-docking/|access-date=30 July 2021|publisher=NASASpaceFlight.com|archive-date=29 July 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210729195127/https://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2021/07/nauka-docking/|url-status=live}}</ref> Because of the glitch, all activities were temporarily scrubbed and the launch of [[Boeing Orbital Flight Test 2]] was delayed 96 hours while the crew continued checkouts of ''Nauka''.<ref name="SFN20210729">{{cite web|url=https://spaceflightnow.com/2021/07/29/nauka-docking-oft-2-delay/ |title=High drama as Russian lab module tilts space station with errant thruster firings|publisher=Spaceflight Now|date=29 July 2021|access-date=30 July 2021|archive-date=29 July 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210729232002/https://spaceflightnow.com/2021/07/29/nauka-docking-oft-2-delay/|url-status=live}}</ref> On 3 August 2021, it was decided to use ''Zvezda''{{'}}s engines to correct the station's orbit parameters for the relocation of Soyuz MS-18 and the launch of [[Soyuz MS-19]]. The burn was originally planned for 19 August, but was instead executed on 21 August and lasted for 50 seconds.<ref>{{cite web|title=Новости. Коррекция высоты орбиты МКС запланирована на 19 августа|url=https://www.roscosmos.ru/32081/|access-date=4 August 2021|website=roscosmos.ru}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=News. Routine ISS orbit reboost conducted|url=http://en.roscosmos.ru/22300/|access-date=31 August 2021|website=en.roscosmos.ru}}</ref>

Because of the incident, Mission Control Moscow ordered ''Zvezda'' to be evacuated while commands were sent to purge the fuel lines with helium and to make sure there were no leaks of the toxic hypergolic fuel on the Russian Segment.<ref>{{cite web|date=30 July 2021|title=Российские космонавты могут временно перейти в американский сегмент МКС|url=https://ria.ru/20210730/kosmonavty-1743544171.html|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210730075535/https://ria.ru/20210730/kosmonavty-1743544171.html|archive-date=30 July 2021|access-date=30 July 2021|website=РИА Новости|language=ru}}</ref>

=== Commission ===
[[File:Visiting Vehicle Launches, Arrivals and Departures after Nauka docking.png|thumb|upright=1.0|right|Vehicles visiting the ISS at the time of ''Nauka''{{'}}s docking.]]

The international partners formed a commission chaired by [[Bill Nelson]] of [[NASA]]. Members of this panel included prime contractor [[Boeing]], [[JAXA]] and their prime contractor [[Mitsubishi Heavy Industries]], [[European Space Agency|ESA]] and their prime contractors [[Thales Alenia Space]] and Dutch Space, [[Roscosmos]], and contractors from Energia. On 30 July the commission delivered their final report and the chief engineer identified the root cause of the glitch to be a direct command sent to ''Nauka'' from the ground before the Kurs and TORU systems were deactivated, leading to the thruster firings.<ref>{{cite web|title=Energia Designer General on MLM Nauka docking|url=http://en.roscosmos.ru/22251/|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210730181140/http://en.roscosmos.ru/22251/|archive-date=30 July 2021|access-date=31 July 2021|website=en.roscosmos.ru}}</ref>

=== Integrating into the ISS ===
[[File:ISS-65 Nauka docks to the International Space Station.webm|thumb|upright=1.0|right|''Nauka'' docking sequence to the International Space Station's docking port]]

Work resumed on 30 July 2021 to outfit ''Nauka'' and tie its computers into the ISS. Novitsky and Dubrov performed leak checks before they started opening hatches between the modules. Once the hatch was opened, cables were connected and laptops were set up and connected to the station's routers. Then the cosmonauts connected the plumbing and the waste and fuel lines to the station, and disabled ''Nauka''{{'}}s engines to prevent them from firing until they were connected to the station's computers. They also set up sleeping quarters for the crew that were to arrive shortly, activated experiments and turned on environmental control to cool ''Nauka'' until the RTOd radiator was extracted from ''Rassvet'' in October.<ref>{{cite web|title=Новости. Продолжается интеграция модуля "Наука" в состав МКС |url=https://www.roscosmos.ru/32041/|access-date=30 July 2021|website=roscosmos.ru|archive-date=30 July 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210730071633/https://www.roscosmos.ru/32041/|url-status=live}}</ref> At 17:47 UTC, the hatches were opened and Novitsky and Dubrov entered ''Nauka'' and made their way into the workshop. They first installed ventilation lines from the U.S. and Russian segments to vent out any stale air remaining from the launch. Next, they activated alarms and smoke detectors and installed gas monitors to check for traces of [[Unsymmetrical dimethylhydrazine|UDMH]] and [[Dinitrogen tetroxide|N<sub>2</sub>O<sub>4</sub>]] following venting the day before. They finished the day by removing unneeded hardware and launch restraints and transferring them to Progress MS-17 for disposal.<ref>{{cite web|title=Новости. Люки между модулем "Наука" и МКС открыты|url=https://www.roscosmos.ru/32037/|access-date=31 July 2021|website=roscosmos.ru|archive-date=31 July 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210731005410/https://www.roscosmos.ru/32037/|url-status=live}}</ref>

On 2 August 2021, Novitsky and Dubrov dismantled some hardware that came up in ''Nauka'' and disposed of unneeded trash. They also started installing racks and assembling the station's toilet, and assembled the environmental control systems. They finished the day by cleaning their spacesuits and doing maintenance on the suits' environmental systems in preparation for an upcoming spacewalk. Over the next few days, they unloaded all the cargo and emptied the corridor so the cosmonauts could gain access to the nadir end.<ref>{{cite web|title=Новости. Продолжаются работы по модулю "Наука"|url=https://www.roscosmos.ru/32078/ |access-date=3 August 2021|website=roscosmos.ru|archive-date=3 August 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210803074248/https://www.roscosmos.ru/32078/|url-status=live}}</ref>

On 9 and 12 September 2021, two spacewalks were performed by Novitsky and Dubrov to wire up ''Nauka.'' The cosmonauts also installed handrails and attachment points for experiments.<ref>{{cite web |last=Moran|first=Norah|title=Cosmonauts Conclude First Spacewalk To Ready New Module|url=https://blogs.nasa.gov/spacestation/2021/09/03/cosmonauts-conclude-first-spacewalk-to-ready-new-module/|access-date=25 September 2021|website=blogs.nasa.gov|date=3 September 2021 }} {{PD-notice}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Garcia|first=Mark|title=Cosmonauts Wrap Up Second Spacewalk to Set Up Science Module |url=https://blogs.nasa.gov/spacestation/2021/09/09/cosmonauts-wrap-up-second-spacewalk-to-set-up-science-module/|access-date=25 September 2021|website=blogs.nasa.gov|date=9 September 2021 }} {{PD-notice}}</ref> Work was done inside to install the Robotic Work Station which controls [[European Robotic Arm|ERA]].<ref>{{cite web|last=Garcia|first=Mark|title=New Robotic Arm Being Set Up Before Crew Ship Switches Ports |url=https://blogs.nasa.gov/spacestation/2021/09/22/new-robotic-arm-being-set-up-before-crew-ship-switches-ports/|access-date=25 September 2021|website=blogs.nasa.gov|date=22 September 2021 }} {{PD-notice}}</ref> On 28 September 2021, [[Soyuz MS-18]] was moved around the block to ''Nauka'' for the first docking of these two spacecraft. This cleared ''Rassvet'' for the arrival of [[Soyuz MS-19]] on 5 October 2021.<ref>{{cite web|last=Garcia |first=Mark|title=Space Biology, Dragon Packing and Station Traffic Fill Crew Schedule|url=https://blogs.nasa.gov/spacestation/2021/09/24/space-biology-dragon-packing-and-station-traffic-fill-crew-schedule/ |access-date=25 September 2021|website=blogs.nasa.gov|date=24 September 2021 }} {{PD-notice}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Garcia|first=Mark|title=Soyuz Crew Ship Docks to New Science Module Port |url=https://blogs.nasa.gov/spacestation/2021/09/28/soyuz-crew-ship-docks-to-new-science-module-port/|access-date=29 September 2021|website=blogs.nasa.gov|date=28 September 2021 }} {{PD-notice}}</ref>

On 15 October 2021, at 09:02 UTC, during preparation of the ship's propulsion system for landing, the Soyuz MS-18 inadvertently fired its thrusters beyond its planned time, changing the orientation of the ISS by as much as 57°, at 09:13 UTC. The station's attitude control system counteracted that motion by activating thrusters of the Russian Segment. The erroneous firing of Soyuz engines was the result of a procedural error in the instructions sent by mission control to Novitsky ahead of the test. Fortunately, the flight control system aboard the Soyuz spacecraft had a limit set for the engine testing, which generated a cutoff command as soon as the firing consumed all the propellant allocated for the test. As a result, all the propellant reserves aboard the spacecraft needed for landing remained untouched. The crew was not in danger and it was the second such incident since the loss of control of the ''Nauka'' on 29 July.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.space.com/russian-soyuz-thrusters-tilt-space-station-again |title=Errant Russian spacecraft thruster firing tilts space station by accident again|publisher=Space.com|date=15 October 2021|access-date=16 October 2021}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://blogs.nasa.gov/spacestation/2021/10/15/crew-work-and-station-attitude-update-before-soyuz-crew-departure/|title=Crew Work and Station Attitude Update Before Soyuz Crew Departure|publisher=NASA |date=15 October 2021|access-date=16 October 2021}} {{PD-notice}}</ref>

On 17 October 2021, Soyuz MS-18 undocked from ''Nauka'', returning Novitsky and two space tourists, actress [[Yulia Peresild]] and her producer director [[Klim Shipenko]], to Earth, after spending a week on the station filming the movie [[The Challenge (2022 film)|''The Challenge'']].<ref name="rc 2021-04-09">{{cite web|url=https://www.roscosmos.ru/30638/|title=На МКС 10 человек|language=ru|publisher=Роскосмос|date=9 April 2021|access-date=30 April 2021}}</ref>

On 20 October 2021, Progress MS-17 undocked from ''Poisk'' and was placed in chase mode for 24 hours.The Progress MS-17 was the cargo freighter that assisted the crew in many of operations related to Nauka, including providing equipment for integrating Nauka. It redocked to ''Nauka'' on 22 October. After the redocking Dubrov and [[Anton Shkaplerov]] installed a docking adapter and reopened the hatches to finish loading it with trash from inside ''Nauka,'' in preparation for its undocking on 24 November.<ref name="NSF20211022">{{cite web |url=https://forum.nasaspaceflight.com/index.php?topic=53223.340|title=Expedition 66 Thread|page=18|publisher=NASASpaceFlight.com|date=22 October 2021|access-date=22 October 2021}}</ref>

=== Integrating with ''Prichal'' ===
[[File:1637984492234 Progress MS 17 undocking and Nauka nadir temporary docking adapter Removal 02.jpg|thumb|upright=1.0|right|Progress MS-17 undocking and ''Nauka'' nadir temporary docking adapter removal from ISS {{efn|The temporary docking adapter is the grey ring surrounding the docking probe of Progress MS-17.}}]]
[[File:Prichal flyaround and docking 12 (cropped).jpg|thumb|upright=1.0|right|''Prichal'' arrival]]

Roscosmos launched the [[Prichal (ISS module)|''Prichal'' Node Module]] in November 2021. ''Prichal'', expected to outlive the ISS together with ''Nauka'' as part of the planned [[Russian Orbital Service Station]], will increase the number of available docking ports on the Russian Orbital Segment by four. As ''Nauka'' was designed to be permanently docked to ''Prichal'', its nadir docking port is of the SSVP-M or "Hybrid" standard, which consists of the traditional [[SSVP docking system|SSVP-G]] probe‑and‑drogue soft-dock mechanism and an [[APAS-95]] hard-dock collar. This would make the docking port unusable for Soyuz or Progress flights in case ''Prichal'' failed to arrive at the station, because these spacecraft use a slightly different SSVP standard. To ensure the availability of four ports on the segment, ''Nauka'' was launched with an APAS to SSVP-G adapter ring.

On 25 November 2021, Progress MS-17 undocked from ''Nauka'', taking with it the adapter ring, since ''Prichal'' can dock only to a SSVP-M port, not SSVP-G. It was later deorbited together with Progress MS-17 and both burned up on reentry over the [[Pacific Ocean|South Pacific Ocean]]. After this, the final visiting spacecraft, [[Progress M-UM]], a modified [[Progress (spacecraft)|Progress]] spacecraft consisting of the usual fuel compartment and propulsion module and ''Prichal'' in place of the forward pressurized module, docked to the now exposed SSVP-M port. On 22 December 2021, the Progress undocked from ''Prichal'', freeing the nadir port for docking. A spacewalk on 19 January 2022, connected power and telemetry cables and fluid quick disconnects were mated so Progress and Soyuz ships can transfer fuel to ''Nauka''{{'}}s main tanks.<ref name="auto"/><ref>{{cite web|title=Новости. "Прогресс МС-17" освободил место для нового модуля|url=https://www.roscosmos.ru/33452/|access-date=25 November 2021|website=roscosmos.ru}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Новости. Новый модуль вошел в состав российского сегмента МКС|url=https://www.roscosmos.ru/33473/|access-date=27 November 2021|website=roscosmos.ru}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|last=Garcia|first=Mark|title=Modified Russian Propulsion Module Departs Station|url=https://blogs.nasa.gov/spacestation/2021/12/22/modified-russian-propulsion-module-departs-station/|access-date=23 December 2021|website=blogs.nasa.gov|date=22 December 2021 |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|last=Garcia|first=Mark|title=Cosmonauts Wrap Up Spacewalk after Russian Module Work|url=https://blogs.nasa.gov/spacestation/2022/01/19/cosmonauts-wrap-up-spacewalk-after-russian-module-work/|access-date=19 January 2022|website=blogs.nasa.gov|date=19 January 2022 |language=en-US}}</ref>

== Outfitting work ==
Twelve spacewalks were required to fully outfit alongside commissioning ''Nauka'' and ''ERA''; the first of these was performed in September 2021, ending in August 2023.
===Bringing ERA to functionality===
{{main|European Robotic Arm#Bringing ERA to functionality|European Robotic Arm#ERA validation operations and deployment}}
=== Installation of outfitting equipment ===
[[File:MRM1 Rassvet.png|thumb|upright=1.0|right|MLM outfittings on Rassvet]]
[[File:STS132 Mini-Research Module-1.jpg|thumb|upright=1.0|right|MLM outfitting equipment consisting of the MLM Experiment Airlock, MLM radiators and ERA workpost on the ''Rassvet'' module as seen at KSC.]]
[[File:ISS-65 Nauka and Soyuz MS-18 docked to the International Space Station (1).jpg|thumb|upright=1.0|right|A wide-angle view of ''Nauka'' (behind ''Rassvet'') attached to the [[Russian Orbital Segment|ROS]] as seen from the Cupola.]]
[[File:AS-G Active.jpg|thumb|upright=1.0|right|''Nauka'' modified ASA-G forward port for experimental airlock after docking to the International Space Station]]

In May 2010, outfitting equipment for ''Nauka'' was launched, attached to the outside of ''Rassvet'' (Mini-Research Module 1) on [[STS-132]] (as part of an agreement with NASA) and delivered by [[Space Shuttle Atlantis|Space Shuttle ''Atlantis'']]. The equipment, weighing 1.4 metric tons, includes a spare elbow joint for ERA (launched with ''Nauka'') and an ERA portable workpost used during EVAs, the RTOd heat radiator, internal hardware and an experiment airlock for launching [[CubeSat]]s, to be positioned on the modified passive forward port near the nadir end of the module.<ref name="Roscosmos1"/>

Out of these, the outfitting equipment needed for ERA was to be first deployed. After that, the radiator and airlock was outfitted to Nauka. The spacewalkers changed a grapple fixture so the airlock can be used as a base point for the arm, broke torque on bolts that secure the airlock and radiator to ''Rassvet'', removed launch restraints from the radiator, and vented nitrogen jumpers on VKD-55 spacewalk on 17 November 2022.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Garcia |first=Mark |title=Cosmonauts Prep for Thursday Spacewalk, Dragon Targets Monday Launch |url=https://blogs.nasa.gov/spacestation/2022/11/16/cosmonauts-prep-for-thursday-spacewalk-dragon-targets-monday-launch/ |access-date=2022-11-16 |website=blogs.nasa.gov |date=16 November 2022 |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Lavelle |first=Heidi |title=Cosmonauts Begin First in a Series of Spacewalks for Station Maintenance |url=https://blogs.nasa.gov/spacestation/2022/11/17/cosmonauts-begin-first-in-a-series-of-spacewalks-for-station-maintenance/ |access-date=2022-11-17 |website=blogs.nasa.gov |date=17 November 2022 |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Garcia |first=Mark |title=Cosmonauts Finish Spacewalk for Work on Science Module |url=https://blogs.nasa.gov/spacestation/2022/11/17/cosmonauts-finish-spacewalk-for-work-on-science-module/ |access-date=2022-11-17 |website=blogs.nasa.gov |date=17 November 2022 |language=en-US}}</ref> The airlock has a NASA-made FRGF grapple fixture, which was attached to the airlock component carried aboard ''Rassvet'', and used to attach it to the shuttle's [[Canadarm]] for passing it over to the station's [[Canadarm2]]. The grapple fixture is designed to operate until 2028. The cosmonauts modified this grapple fixture to allow ERA to transfer the airlock from its storage location on ''Rassvet'' to the operational position on ''Nauka'''s forward port and for airlock's use all over the station.<ref>{{cite web|title=CAD image, ERA and Nauka|url=https://forum.nasaspaceflight.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=23444.0;attach=2045787;image|publisher=NASASpaceflight|access-date=November 23, 2022}}</ref>

The deployable radiator adds additional cooling capability to ''Nauka'', enabling it to host more scientific experiments. The airlock is used only to pass experiments inside and outside ''Nauka'' with the aid of ERA — serving a very similar purpose to the Japanese airlock on [[Kibo (ISS module)|''Kibo'']] and [[Nanoracks Bishop Airlock]], both on the U.S. segment of the station.<ref name="Roscosmos1"/>

The ERA was used to remove the RTOd radiator on VKD-56 spacewalk and experiment airlock Shk on VKD-57 spacewalk from ''Rassvet'' and transfer them over to ''Nauka''. This process took several months. 

Another MLM outfitting is a 4 segment external payload interface called means of attachment of large payloads (Sredstva Krepleniya Krupnogabaritnykh Obyektov, SKKO).<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://forum.nasaspaceflight.com/index.php?action=pm;f=inbox;l=-1;done=sent|title=Sredstva Krepleniya Krupnogabaritnykh Obyektov, SKKO |url-access=subscription}}</ref> It was delivered in two parts to Nauka by [[Progress MS-18]] (delivered LCCS part, that is, the four part SKKO frame) and [[Progress MS-21]] (delivered SCCS part, that is, the payload adapter plates) spacecraft as a part of module activation outfitting process.<ref>{{Cite web |title=The Russian Nauka/Multipurpose Laboratory Module (MLM) General Thread |url=https://forum.nasaspaceflight.com/index.php?topic=23444.msg2419522#msg2419522 |access-date=2022-10-15 |website=forum.nasaspaceflight.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Schedule of ISS flight events (part 2) |url=https://forum.nasaspaceflight.com/index.php?topic=32006.msg2391098#msg2391098 |access-date=31 July 2022 |website=forum.nasaspaceflight.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=The Russian Nauka/Multipurpose Laboratory Module (MLM) General Thread |url=https://forum.nasaspaceflight.com/index.php?topic=23444.msg2334840#msg2334840 |access-date=25 March 2022 |website=forum.nasaspaceflight.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Russia to bump its ISS crew back to three |url=http://www.russianspaceweb.com/iss-fgb2-mlm-integration.html |access-date=25 March 2022 |website=www.russianspaceweb.com}}</ref> Once the nadir end of SKKO was soft docked to Nauka and bolted down, the launch locks on SKKO were released by the spacewalkers to allow it to be unfolded and extended with its joints self locking in the extended position to create a rigid frame. Then the Zenith end of SKKO was soft docked to Nauka and bolted down. The 3 passive payload adapters and the one active payload adapter (i.e. active remote sensing payload like [[Mir|MIR]] [[Priroda]]'s [[Priroda#Travers Synthetic Aperture Radar|Travers Synthetic Aperture Radar]]) are then outfitted. The SKKO is derived from the setup used on the Priroda module.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Roscosmos |title=MLM-U Structure diagram |url=https://everydayastronaut.com/wp-content/uploads/Prelaunch-Preview/Roscosmos/Rendering_Nauka_incuding_components_attached_post_Nauka_Docking-768x370.jpg |website=Everydayastronaut.com}}</ref> SKKO elements were launched inside the Progress spacecraft and transferred to a temporary storage location inside one of the station modules. It was taken outside and installed on the ERA aft facing base point on Nauka during the VKD-55 spacewalk.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.russianspaceweb.com/protected/iss-vkd59.html|title=VKD-59 spacewalk |url-access=subscription}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=Nauka module rendering (image)|url=https://forum.nasaspaceflight.com/assets/23444.0/2094824.jpg|publisher=NASASpaceflight.com|access-date=November 23, 2022}}</ref> Further follow on hardware is not part of the modules activation outfitting spacewalk series and are yet to be assigned a flight.

With the help of the SKKO system, located on the outer surface of the MLM-U, 5 universal workstations URM-N will appear, each of which is equipped with three payload adapters, due to which the total number of places for accommodating scientific equipment will be 16 pieces. The total weight of the equipment installed at the SKKO is less than {{cvt|400|kg}}.

The portable work platform on Rassvet was also transferred over as the last MLM-outfitting in August 2023 during VKD-60 spacewalk, which can attach to the end of the ERA to allow cosmonauts to "ride" on the end of the arm during spacewalks. This completed the Nauka and ERA outfitting tasks.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Harwood |first=William |title=Russian cosmonauts make spacewalk at International Space Station – Spaceflight Now |url=https://spaceflightnow.com/2023/08/09/live-coverage-russian-cosmonauts-make-spacewalk-at-international-space-station/ |access-date=2023-08-10 |language=en-US}}</ref>
===RTOd heat radiator damaged===
However, even after several months of outfitting EVAs and RTOd heat radiator installation, six months later, the RTOd radiator malfunctioned before active use of Nauka (the purpose of RTOd installation is to radiate heat from Nauka experiments). The malfunction, a leak, rendered the RTOd radiator unusable for Nauka. This is the third ISS radiator leak after [[Soyuz MS-22]] and [[Progress MS-21]] radiator leaks. If a spare RTOd is not available, Nauka experiments will have to rely on Nauka's main launch radiator and the module could never be utilized to its full capacity.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Russian space station laboratory module appears to spring coolant leak – Spaceflight Now |url=https://spaceflightnow.com/2023/10/09/leak-detected-onboard-russian-segment-of-international-space-station/ |access-date=2023-10-10 |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Госкорпорация «Роскосмос» |url=https://t.me/roscosmos_gk/11130 |access-date=2023-10-10 |website=Telegram}}</ref>

== Dockings ==
[[File:Soyuz MS-18 crew ship relocated location.jpg|thumb|upright=1.0|right|Soyuz MS-18 docked to ''Nauka'' after relocation{{efn|name=preconfiguration|The port had the docking adapter built to the SSVP-M or "Hybrid" standard, which consists of the traditional [[SSVP docking system|SSVP]] probe‑and‑drogue soft-dock mechanism and an [[APAS-95]] hard-dock collar at that time. The docking adapter was undocked along with Progress MS-17 to make it a port compatible for ''Prichal'' docking.}}]]
[[File:51651128052 06d3077e33 o Progress MS-17.jpg|thumb|upright=1.0|right|Russia's ISS Progress 78 cargo craft docked to the ''Nauka''{{efn|name=preconfiguration}}]]
[[File:Russian Spacewalkers dwarfed by the Prichal module (cropped).jpg|thumb|Russia's Prichal module docked to the ''Nauka'']]

{| class="wikitable" style="font-size:90%;"
|- 
! Vehicle
! Mission
! Docking
! Undocking
|-
! colspan="4" style="text-align:center;" | Forward
|-
| ''Nauka'' experiment airlock
| MLM outfittings
| 4 May 2023
| {{Color|grey|N/A}}
|-
! colspan="4" style="text-align:center;" | Nadir
|-
| [[Soyuz MS]] ''Yu.A. Gagarin''
| [[Soyuz MS-18]]
| 28 September 2021
| 17 October 2021
|-
| [[Progress MS]] no. 446
| [[Progress MS-17]]
| 22 October 2021
| 25 November 2021{{efn|name=preconfiguration}} 
|-
| ''[[Prichal (ISS module)|Prichal]]''
| [[Progress M-UM]]
| 26 November 2021{{efn|This docking will be on a reconfigured port made for ''Prichal'' docking}}
| {{Color|grey|N/A}}
|-
! colspan="4" style="text-align:center;" | Zenith
|-
| ''[[Zvezda (ISS module)|Zvezda]]''
| ISS-1R
| 29 July 2021
| {{Color|grey|N/A}}
|}

== See also ==
{{Portal|Spaceflight}}
* [[Scientific research on the ISS]]
* [[Russian Orbital Segment]]
* [[Russian Orbital Service Station]]

== Notes ==
{{Notelist}}

== References ==
{{Reflist|refs=

<ref name="SFN20200825">{{cite web|url=https://spaceflightnow.com/2020/08/25/russias-long-delayed-space-station-research-module-finally-arrives-at-launch-base/|title=Russia's long-delayed space station research module arrives at launch base|author=Clark, Stephen|publisher=Spaceflight Now|date=25 August 2020|access-date=26 August 2020|archive-date=30 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200830143053/https://spaceflightnow.com/2020/08/25/russias-long-delayed-space-station-research-module-finally-arrives-at-launch-base/|url-status=live}}</ref>

<ref name="NSF20200819">{{cite web|url=https://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2020/08/nauka-arrives-baikonur-final-preps/|title=Russia's Nauka Arrives Baikonur for final launch preparations |publisher=NASASpaceFlight.com|author=Atkinson, Ian|date=19 August 2020|access-date=20 August 2020|archive-date=20 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200820064445/https://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2020/08/nauka-arrives-baikonur-final-preps/|url-status=live}}</ref>

<ref name="AW20201105">{{cite web|url=https://aviationweek.com/defense-space/space/russia-launch-two-new-modules-iss-2021|title=Russia To Launch Two New Modules To ISS In 2021|publisher=Aviation Week|date=5 November 2020|access-date=6 November 2020|archive-date=4 December 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201204051125/https://aviationweek.com/defense-space/space/russia-launch-two-new-modules-iss-2021 |url-status=live}}</ref>

<ref name="AWST20201026">{{cite web|url=https://aviationweek.com/sites/default/files/2020-10/AWST_201026_2.pdf|title=ISS turns 20|first=Irene|last=Klotz|publisher=Aviation Week and Space Technology (AWST) |pages=48–54|date=26 October 2020|access-date=30 October 2020|archive-date=1 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201101224509/https://aviationweek.com/sites/default/files/2020-10/AWST_201026_2.pdf|url-status=live}}</ref>

<ref name="rsw20210209">{{cite web|url=http://www.russianspaceweb.com/protected/iss_2021.html|title=ISS set for the Russian expansion|first=Anatoly|last=Zak|publisher=RussianSpaceWeb.com|date=9 February 2021 |access-date=9 February 2021}}</ref>
}}

== External links ==
{{Commons category|Nauka (ISS module)}}
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20080608223447/http://www.khrunichev.ru/khrunichev_eng/live/full_mks.asp?id=13190 Description of MLM] at Khrunichev.ru
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20070927002608/http://www.khrunichev.ru/khrunichev/live/full_mks.asp?id=13190 Photos of the incomplete FGB-2] at Khrunichev.ru (in Russian)
* [https://www.roscosmos.ru/31395/ MLM on Roskosmos official page] (in Russian) 
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20051030132756/http://www.novosti-kosmonavtiki.ru/content/numbers/262/01.shtml Новости российского сегмента МКС (in Russian)] – November 2004 article discussing plans for MLM
* [http://www.russianspaceweb.com/iss_fgb2.html MLM (FGB-2) module of the ISS] – RussianSpaceWeb.com on the history of the module
* [http://space.skyrocket.de/doc_sdat/mlm.htm MLM (''Nauka'')] – from Gunter's Space Page

{{ISS modules}}
{{TKS spacecraft}}
{{Uncrewed ISS flights}}
{{Orbital launches in 2021}}

[[Category:Russian components of the International Space Station]]
[[Category:Spacecraft launched in 2021]]
[[Category:2021 in Russia]]
[[Category:Spacecraft launched by Proton rockets]]