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The orbital module is a spherical part of Soviet-Russian Soyuz space ship series. Designed for use only in orbit, the module does not need to be strengthened to survive re-entry, allowing it to provide more usable space for less weight than other manned capsule designs.It serves mainly for rest and hygiene procedures of ship's crew during phase of orbital flight when used a space station ferry, though on early Soyuz missions the module was used for experiments and even as an airlock for the Soyuz_4/Soyuz_5 EVA crew transfer.
In the Chinese Shenzhou spacecraft, the orbital module has been upgraded to carry its own solar panels and is capable of operating independently as a free-flying spacecraft.
The present form of the planned Euro-Russian ACTS (Advanced Crew Transportation System) also follows the three module layout of the Soyuz and will include a orbital module.
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