By mid-1996, following the Priroda Module launch and docking with the Mir OC, its final configuration as the research complex outfitted with a unigue scientific hardware was formed.
The Complex incorporated 7 modules housing during its operation period scientific hardware of more than 27 designations and produced by 27 countries, with a total mass equal to 11.5 tons. In addition, taking into account auxiliary hardware and support aids, a total mass of the Complex with payloads amounted to 14 tons.
This scientific hardware complex ensured conducting fundamental and applied research into nine different scientific-technical areas.
In particular, this unique scientific hardware complex incorporated the following:

• large environmental study complex composed of the 24 active and passive instruments designed for earth observation and operating in visible, infra-red and microwave spectrum ranges;
• astrophysical observatory housing 6 telescopes and spectrometers;
• four process furnaces, 6 medical diagnostic systems;
• materials science and biotechnological hardware.