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1.13 Soyuz-TM (1986-Present)
Soyuz-TM (figure 1-30) is an upgraded version of Soyuz-T used with the Mir space station. The “TM” in Soyuz-TM is usually translated as “transport modified,” meaning that it is a further improvement of the Soyuz-T. Figure 1-30. Soyuz-TM spacecraft. Compare the antennae on the orbital module to those on Soyuz-T. Differences reflect the change from the Igla rendezvous system used on Soyuz-T to the Kurs rendezvous system used on Soyuz-TM.
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1.13.1 Soyuz-TM Specifications

 * Launch weight .......................................... 7070 kg
 * Length ..................................................... 6.98 m
 * Span across solar arrays .......................... 10.6 m
 * Diameter of habitable modules ................... 2.2 m
 * Maximum diameter ................................... 2.72 m
 * Habitable volume ...................................... 9.5-10 m3
 * Number of crew ........................................ 2-3

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1.13.2 Soyuz-TM Notable Features

 * The Kurs rendezvous system, which permitted automatic dockings with an unresponsive space station, replaced the Igla system. Kurs could operate at greater distances from a station than Igla, and could lock on even if its antennas were not aligned with those on the target station; that is, the antennas were omnidi-
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 * rectional and did not have to be in line of sight.


 * 10-kg launch and reentry pressure suits, which in an emergency can protect the wearer in open space.
 * Lighter parachutes, which take up less room in the descent module and save up to 140 kg of weight.
 * Launch payload increased by 200-250 kg to 51.6° orbit; return payload increased by 70-90 kg.
 * Improved propellant tanks—these featured metal membranes for
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 * dividing the oxidizer from the fuel. Past Soyuz propellant systems used organic (plastic?) membranes which could leak, degrading engine performance.


 * Improved communications gear—separate voice channels for each cosmonaut and improved reception quality.
 * Improved landing radar altimeter.
 * Lighter escape system motors.
 * Triple redundant electrical systems, and redundant hydraulic systems.
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