Multi-Purpose Logistics Module

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Image:Mplm in shuttle.jpg Image:STS-114 Raffaello module.jpg

The Multi-Purpose Logistics Module (MPLM) a large pressurized container used on Space Shuttle missions to transfer cargo to and from the International Space Station (ISS). It is carried in the cargo bay of the Space Shuttle and berthed to the Unity Module, where supplies are offloaded and finished experiments and waste are loaded. The MPLM is then reberthed in the Shuttle for return to Earth.

The MPLM is provided to NASA under contract by the Italian Space Agency (ASI). Three MPLMs have been delivered to NASA and are named Leonardo, Raffaello, and Donatello, after famous Italian artists. Each empty MPLM is approximately 21 feet long, 15 feet in diameter, weighs 4.5 tons, and can deliver up to 10 tons of cargo to the ISS.

The MPLM was originally designed for Space Station Freedom. Initially, it was to be built by Boeing, but in 1992, the Italians announced that they would build a "Mini-Pressurized Logistics Module", able to carry 4500 kg of cargo. After the 1993 redesign, the length was doubled and it was renamed the "Multi-Purpose Logistics Module"

Launch Date Mission Shuttle MPLM
March 8, 2001 STS-102 Discovery Leonardo
April 19, 2001 STS-100 Atlantis Raffaello
August 10, 2001 STS-105 Discovery Leonardo
December 5, 2001 STS-108 Endeavour Raffaello
June 5, 2002 STS-111 Endeavour Leonardo
July 26, 2005 STS-114 Discovery Raffaello
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Specifications

  • Length - 4.4 m
  • Width - 4.57 m
  • Mass - 4,082 kg empty; 13,154 kg loaded

Template:ISS modulesde:Multi-Purpose Logistics Module hu:Multi-Purpose Logistics Module pt:Módulo de Logística Multifuncional

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