How SpaceX and Orbital ATK keep the International Space Station running
In short: Keeping the International Space Station operational requires a constant stream of cargo. From bone-forming stem cells to specialized 3D printing materials, these resupply missions deliver the essential tools needed to conduct groundbreaking research that could eventually support human missions to the Moon and Mars.
Commercial resupply missions are vital for the International Space Station's continued operation. Orbital ATK’s enhanced Cygnus spacecraft is scheduled to launch on December 3 from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. This mission, the fourth under NASA’s Commercial Resupply Services contract, aims to deliver over 7,000 pounds of hardware, crew supplies, and scientific research materials to the orbital laboratory.
SpaceX also plays a major role through its 33rd commercial resupply mission for NASA. Targeting a 2:45 a.m. EDT launch on Sunday, August 24, a SpaceX Dragon spacecraft atop a Falcon 9 rocket will carry more than 5,000 pounds of cargo. This cargo carries intricate biological and production tests, like bioprinted liver tissue for observing blood vessel growth in microgravity and bone-forming stem cells to explore preventing bone loss.
Beyond delivering supplies, these missions test new technologies for long-term spaceflight. The Dragon spacecraft is set to perform a reboost demonstration to help maintain the station's altitude. This involves using a specialized boost kit located in the Dragon's trunk, which utilizes an independent propellant system to fuel two Draco engines. While a previous demonstration occurred on November 8, 2024, during SpaceX's 31st mission, new periodic burns are planned throughout the fall of 2025 to sustain the station's orbit.
The Dragon spacecraft is expected to stay docked to the Harmony module's forward port until December. After completing its mission, it will depart and splash down in the Pacific Ocean off the California coast, returning research and cargo to Earth.
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Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: Prelaunch Status of Next Supply Mission to the Space Station
- Also: NASA Sets Coverage for SpaceX 33rd Station Resupply Launch, Arrival - NASA
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