![](../../../energia/mars/im/chron-1987_01.gif)
A switch to two independent nuclear reactors
to increase flight reliability
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A change in the shape of the lander (a
lifting body instead of a "headlight" with
a heat shield)
![](../../../energia/mars/im/chron-1987_02s.jpg)
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The next Martian mission project proposed in 1987, after
a successful launch of super heavy-lift launch
vehicle Energia, to a large extent drew upon engineering
solutions of 1969 project.
The distinctive feature of this project was the use of Energia
launch vehicle as the means of putting elements of the spacecraft
into orbit. Besides, the interplanetary transit was to use
two independent propulsion power plants 7.5 MW each with
its own nuclear reactor, radiator, and a cluster of electric
rocket engines. This allowed to drastically increase
reliability and safety of the interplanetary transit without
any increase in the initial mass and cost.
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