Sobyanin spoke about the contribution of Moscow developers to the development of the space industry

The world's first space microscope, the SMM-2000S, developed by Moscow engineers, has helped to obtain unique scientific data that makes a special contribution to space exploration, Mayor Sergei Sobyanin said in the Maks messenger.

In June 2023, a scanning probe microscope was placed on board the Nanoprobe-1 satellite, after which the device was launched into orbit. The microscope is characterized by low power consumption and functions reliably in open space conditions.

In the course of research conducted using it, scientists have established that individual materials can restore their structure under the influence of solar radiation. This opens up the possibility for developing spacecraft with increased resistance to wear during their stay in orbit. In addition, experts have found that the solar wind does not destroy the outer coverings of ships as quickly as previously thought. This means that developers can reduce the thickness of the case and free up additional space for the payload.

"Previously, using this microscope, scientists were able to explain the appearance of dust in space. This discovery is important for the safety of the entire space industry," Sobyanin added.

The SMM-2000S microscope was developed at the Proton plant. Specialists of the enterprise, which is a resident of the Technopolis Moscow SEZ, have also created the world's only probe microscopes operating inside nuclear and thermonuclear reactors. They help to study the behavior of materials in extreme conditions, which is important for the search for new safe and efficient energy sources, stressed the Mayor of Moscow.