propulsion
First stage
Provides the high thrust needed for liftoff and early ascent.
TransitSatellite Library / Launch Vehicle Engineering
Proton-M
Heavy-lift launch vehicle
Proton-M carried the Nauka Multipurpose Laboratory Module into orbit in July 2021 for expansion of the International Space Station Russian segment.
Engineering overview
Proton-M is a modernized version of the Proton heavy-lift launch vehicle. Its multi-stage ascent system was used to send the Nauka Multipurpose Laboratory Module toward low Earth orbit from Baikonur Cosmodrome.
On July 21, 2021, Proton-M launched Nauka. After separation, Nauka performed the orbital maneuvers and approach needed to dock with the International Space Station on July 29. The launch vehicle and the module therefore performed different parts of the mission: ascent and delivery to an initial orbit versus rendezvous and docking.
Engineering schematic
Vehicle components
propulsion
Second stage
Continues acceleration after the first stage separates.
propulsion
Third stage
Supports the later ascent and payload-insertion sequence.
structure
Payload fairing
Protects the Nauka payload through atmospheric ascent.
structure
Payload separation interface
Releases the module for its independent orbital flight.
Connected missions
ISS launch timeline
July 21, 2021
Nauka Launch
TransitSatellite connections