Most important fact

It was Soviet Union 's first station which was inhabited by the crew and who safely returned to Earth.

Mass

18,500-kilogram

Launched

June 25, 1974

Launched From

Baikonur Cosmodrome

Launch Vehicle

8K82K

Objectives Achieved

It was launched for exploration for which Cosmonauts were supplied with television system, one-meter diameter telescope and infrared and topographical cameras and optical viewfinder. Laced with these equipments, the cosmonauts were able to take photographs of airfields and missile complexes. They were able to identify numbers on ship decks and the types of aircraft on carriers. In addition to exploration, the cosmonauts also conducted some medical and physical experiments.

Dimensions

Its length was 11.61 meters and had a maximum diameter of 4.15 meters. Its useful volume equaled 47 cubic meters. Two solar panels were laterally mounted to the center of the station.

Crews Visited

2 crews visited Salyut 3, first Soyuz 14 on July 3, 1974 and then Soyuz 15 on Aug. 26, 1974.

Problems Faced

Salyut 3's orbit decayed within six months.

Country

Soviet Union

Duration

6 months

Interesting Facts

That was an era of cold war. As a precautionary measure to thwart any attack by Apollo spacecraft of USA, the cosmonauts were equipped with a Nudelman cannon and supporting missiles.

The film was returned to Earth in a detachable recovery module. It was released from the station and recovered by the Soviets on Sept. 23, 1974.