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The Soyuz Types
There are several variations on the Soyuz ("union") type craft, and they have been used for a variety of programs.
Soyuz
İMark Wade
The first manned Soyuz type is simply referred to as (duh!) "Soyuz". This version was used for the Soyuz (1,3-9), Salyut (10-13,17,18,20,25-40), Almaz (14,15,21,23,24), and ASTP (16,19,22) programs.
Soyuz-T
İMark Wade
The Soyuz-T was a heavily modified version of the original Soyuz and was adapted for use as a transport. It was used for the Salyut 6 and 7 space stations. The final Soyuz-T (15) was a Mir mission, although it did pay a visit to Salyut 7 before returning to Earth.
Soyuz-TM
İMark Wade
The Soyuz-TM craft are modifications of the Soyuz-T and designed for use with Mir (2-30). It can carry two or three cosmonauts. It is also being used for the
ISS (31).Soyuz-TMA
This version of the Soyuz incorporates changes to satisfy NASA requirements for use as a lifeboat for the International Space Station. Changes include new cockpit displays, improved parachute systems, and more flexibility with the weight and height of the crew members.
Lunar Soyuz
İMark Wade
Another varation of the Soyuz family was the 7K-L1. This version was to allow a direct launch for circumlunar flight. It was used in the Zond ("probe") program, but was never used for a manned mission.
Progress
İMark Wade
Soyuz craft were also modified to be cargo vessels for delivering supplies to space stations. These are called "Progress". A second generation of these cargo craft is called "Progress M", and the third (current) generation are referred to as "Progress M1". Most of the Progress mission vessels have been destroyed upon reentry, although a few have carried cargo back and been recovered.