[FPSPACE] How tightly are the Soyuz modules bolted together?

[Igor Lissov]

Geert,

> As far as I know Soyuz does not have an option to use manual control of 
> the DM during reentry (as was possible on most US craft) and guidance is 
> always done by controlling the roll-angle, either you make a 
> computer-guided lifting reentry or you set a constant roll and make a 
> ballistic reentry.

It has but I cannot remember anybody used the manual mode ever.

Four descent modes for Soyuz are:
(1) Automated controlled descent (i.e., computer-controlled entry);
(2) Manual controlled descent;
(3) Ballistic descent;
(4) Reserve ballistic descent.

Of course, ballistic entry is a controlled mode as well, just the 
laws of control are different. Not sure what is the fourth mode.

Igor Lissov