Book discusses the Soviet manned space program. The main stages of development-of Soviet cosmonautics are considered, as well .as the programs for the manned spacecraft "Vostok","Voskhod"and "Soyuz",and the orbital research station "Salyut". The construction and equip­ ment of the spacecraft, and their use on the earth and in flight are described. A description is given of the first orbital space station of the "Soyuz" spacecraft, as well as its operation and the experiments performed when the crew changed from one spacecraft to another in open space. The development of methods for assembling a station and performing scientific studies, and also the scientific station "Salyut", on which the Soviet cosmonauts lived for several days are described. The book also discusses the future prospects for cosmonautics.