The beginning of the Mir station active operation

The Mir station of new generation, that was inserted into the orbit on February 20, 1986, went through its systems check during the automatic and man-controlled modes of flight and entered into a new operation phase being permanently manned.The concept of modular space station with six docking units makes it possible to perform docking with manned spacecraft, cargo vehicles and specialized scientific modules, to increase its functional capabilities and to transform the station into a multipurpose permanent orbital complex. Technical capabilities for performing a wide range of experiments, including joint projects for international cooperation program are extended. The main principles that are realized in the new Mir station, as well as scientific problems that are solved during the station operation, are considered in the article.