In a crucial cargo supply mission, the uncrewed Russian cargo ship Progress 89 successfully docked at the International Space Station (ISS) early Saturday, August 17, delivering tons of essential supplies, food, and gear to the stranded astronauts on board.
The Progress 86 cargo spacecraft approaches the International Space Station’s Poisk module on Dec. 3, 2023, ahead of its docking. Credit: NASA
The automated spacecraft linked up with the ISS at 1:53 a.m. EDT (0553 GMT) at the station's Russian-built Zvezda service module, while both spacecraft flew 260 miles (418 km) over the South Pacific Ocean. NASA spokesperson Rob Navias confirmed the docking during live commentary, stating, "Contact confirmed, docking confirmed. Progress has reached the International Space Station."
Launched by Russia's space agency Roscosmos on Wednesday from Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan, Progress 89 carried 2.8 tons of vital supplies for the ISS's seven-person Expedition 71 crew and two Boeing Starliner astronauts. The cargo included:
- 2,648 pounds (1,201 kilograms) of food, gear, and other dry goods
- 2,094 pounds (949 kg) of propellant
- 926 pounds (420 kg) of water
- 110 pounds (50 kg) of nitrogen
The spacecraft will remain docked at the ISS for six months, providing the crew with necessary resources before being filled with trash and unneeded items for disposal through a controlled re-entry into Earth's atmosphere.
This successful mission highlights the importance of international cooperation in space exploration, as space agencies work together to support human spaceflight missions and achieve common goals. The delivery of essential supplies ensures the continued safety and well-being of the astronauts on board the ISS.
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