NASA extends Russian space agency contract

WASHINGTON, April 7 (UPI) -- NASA says it has signed a $335 million contract extension-modification with the Russian Federal Space Agency for various International Space Station services.

The contract covers comprehensive Soyuz support for crew transportation, rescue, training, launch and landing of long-duration missions for six station crew members during 2013 and 2014.

"In this contract modification, space station crew members will launch on four Soyuz vehicles in 2013 and return on two vehicles in 2013 and two in 2014," NASA said. "The Soyuz flights will carry limited cargo associated with crew transportation to and from the station, and disposal of trash. The cargo allowed per person is approximately 110 pounds (50 kilograms) launched to the station, approximately 37 pounds (17 kilograms) returned to Earth, and trash disposal of approximately 66 pounds (30 kilograms)."