MRM 1 (DCM, SGM, Rassvet)

MRM 1 (Rassvet) [Novosti Kosmonavtiki]

The MRM 1 (Mini Research Module 1, MIM 1, Maliy Issledovatel'ny Modul' 1), formerly designated  DCM (Docking Cargo Module) or SGM (Stikovochno Gruzovom Modul), is a docking module of the International space station ISS, which will extend the Zarya nadir docking port, so that it will not be blocked by the Node 3 element. DCM will be built on the pressurised section of the cancelled SPP (NEP) Science Power Platform. DCM will have two docking units: one - for docking to the nadir port of Zarya module and one  for docking of Soyuz TMA spacecraft

The DCM will we delivered to the ISS by a Shuttle flight. NASA also is purchasing the capability for the Russian Docking Cargo Module (DCM) to carry 1.4 tons of NASA cargo to the space station. That module is scheduled to fly in 2010. By adding the module, NASA will be able to fly outfitting hardware for the Russian MLM (Multipurpose Laboratory Module) on the DCM, eliminating the need to fly a cargo carrier and some ballast on a shuttle flight.

SGM has a launch mass of 7.9 t with 4.78 t being the module itself and 3.12 t being cargo. Th cargo consists of 1.4 t of American goods inside the module and 1.72 t stored on the outside. The outside cargo of the DCM will be:

• an airlock chamber for the Multipurpose Laboratory Module (MLM) (900 kg)
• a radiator for MLM (570 kg)
• a replacement section of the elbow joint of the European ERA (150 kg)
• a portable workstation for ERA (100 kg)

Over time, all these external elements will be transferred to the MLM. The fully assembled SGM will be sent to Kennedy Space Center in June 2009 with launch scheduled for January 2010 on Mission STS-132/ISS-ULF4. DCM will be located on the rear of the shuttle. Once docked to the station, the DCM will be moved to its location by the Shuttle arm and the station SSRMS.