Kern Module

The Core module of the Pionier program is largely based on designs first tested in the Russian Mir modular space station and augmented with a serie of more modern components tested in the Antarctica settlement mission. It is about 130% longer and 95% wider, resulting in a drastically higher volume of usable internal space. It features two emplacements for multiple docking ports on both ends rather than only one end, for 10 possible attachments, though even larger assemblies are theoretically possible by linking multiple Core modules together through the junction modules.



The Kern module features two primary solid-fuel rocket thrusters which are intended to be used to counter orbital decay in a self-sufficient manner. These thrusters are set behind each docking ports, while smaller maneuvering thrusters making use of recycled carbon dioxide in cold gas systems are dispersed elsewhere. The Pionier-Kern module features three solar panel wings measuring 20 meters by 4, arranged in parallel at the 5, 15 and 25 meter marks, to cope with the increased energy demand of more modern and more numerous components.



Like its predecessor, the core module functions as a central living hub, with sleeping quarters, hygiene and medical amenities. However, the station module’s increased internal volume and mass allows for a maximum capacity of 8 cosmonauts rather than 2, though only half of these are expected to be in simultaneous use, with the other half being for temporary stays and visitors. As on Mir, each cosmonaut has access to a small (though somewhat less so) private sleeping compartment as well as exercising equipment to mitigate Zero-G adverse effects and enhanced entertainment capabilities. These include a set of electronic reader tablets which cosmonauts can load up with books prior to launch as well as a recreational computer with a television screen and audio speakers to play music or movies/shows from a pre-programmed library of popular classics of Germano-Soviet culture, updated via key.



The Kern module’s scientific instruments are limited to that which are necessary for the station’s survival such as altitude control, life support and the smooth operation of all electro-engineering components. It is not intended to be a standalone scientific station, but the backbone of a greater facility. As such, its installations are expected to be able to provide life support and power to other modules in case of emergency. The overall frame of the Kern module is used as the template for every other standard module of the Pioneer project to streamline production and reduce development time.