The mini-shuttle demonstrator spacecraft was launched on a suborbital trajectory from the Barents Sea and landed in Kamchatka. The spacecraft, named Demonstrator 2, is designed to deliver and return cargo from the space station, as well as land on other planets. The spacecraft is equipped with an inflatable landing system. This is a follow on to the IRDT spacecraft launched on Soyuz-Fregat in 2000.

Data obtained during the test flight will be used to develop a new generation of descent modules. This test model is not reusable, although future mini-shuttles are planned to be reusable. The 146 kg (322 lbm) mini-shuttle is 0.8 meters (2.6 ft) in diameter when folded. The Babakin Science Research Center developed the mini-shuttle. The mini-shuttle began development as part of the "Mars 96" project which was later cancelled due to budget cuts.