First modular space station

MIR

["Here’s a helpful hint for the clue \"First modular space station\" with the answer \"MIR\":\n\n**\"Soviet-era orbital outpost that was assembled piece by piece.\"**\n\nThis hint provides context about the station's origin and modular design without directly stating the name, making it easier than the original clue while still requiring some deduction."]

The clue "First modular space station" leads to the answer "MIR" through a straightforward reference to space history. The word "MIR" is the name of the first modular space station, which was operated in low Earth orbit from 1986 to 2001. The term "modular" refers to the design of the space station, which consisted of multiple modules that were launched and assembled in orbit. Therefore, the clue directly points to the historical significance of MIR as the pioneering modular space station.