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Soyuz 16 served as a comprehensive rehearsal for the Soviet contribution to Apollo-Soyuz Test Project (ASTP).
Anatoli Filipchenko. Credit Spacefacts.
Soyuz 16 Crew
Nikolai Rukavishnikov
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The American astronauts acknowledged the necessity of enhancing their Russian language proficiency. They observed that their Russian counterparts, had demonstrated a remarkable commitment to learning English, dedicating 6 to 8 hours each day to individual language instruction.
Interior view of Environment Control System breadboard test
Spacecraft Simulators at Star City
Docking Systems Installed on a Simulator
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For the first time, the Soviet Union publicly announced the crew assignments for a Soyuz mission before the flight. Previously, cosmonaut identities were kept secret until after their flights.
ASTP Crew
ASTP Display at 1973 Paris Air Show
Snowball Flight at Star City
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According to George Low, the Soviet mission operations control room was quite large – it contained 16 two-man consoles, thus allowing them 32 flight controllers. In addition, there was a back row of consoles which were used for personnel such as the project technical director; this back row was also a work station for display controllers who control the main display boards in the front of the room.
Cosmonaut Training Center at Star City
Star City Location in Relation to Moscow
Soviet manned space mission control in Kaliningrad. Credit Getty Images
