The ISS Progress 84, a cargo spacecraft from Roscosmos, is currently attached to the International Space Station’s Poisk module, as shown in a NASA photo.
On December 3, 2023, the International Space Station (ISS) received a vital shipment from the Roscosmos Progress 86 spacecraft. Launched from Kazakhstan, this spacecraft successfully connected with the ISS, carrying almost three tons of essential resources for the crew of Expedition 70.
The uncrewed Progress 86, part of the Roscosmos fleet, reached the ISS’s Poisk module at 6:18 a.m. EST on December 3, 2023. This spacecraft was sent into orbit by a Soyuz rocket at 4:25 a.m. EST on Friday, December 1 (2:25 p.m. Baikonur time), from the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan.
This mission involves Progress delivering a substantial cargo of food, fuel, and various supplies to the ISS for Expedition 70.
As of December 3, 2023, the configuration of the International Space Station includes six docked spacecraft: the SpaceX Dragon cargo and Endurance crew spacecraft, Northrop Grumman’s Cygnus freighter, the Soyuz MS-24 crew ship, and the Progress 85 and 86 resupply ships, as indicated by NASA.
The Progress spacecraft, integral to Roscosmos’ operations, are a series of uncrewed vessels designed for resupplying space stations. Originating in the 1970s, these spacecraft have undergone multiple evolutions and are recognized for their effective and dependable contributions to space logistics.
Designed on the Soyuz spacecraft model and modified for cargo transport, Progress ships typically include a pressurized area for scientific tools, food, and other materials, and an unpressurized section for carrying fuel and water. Their cargo capacity generally ranges from 2,500 to 3,000 kilograms, depending on the model.
Progress spacecraft have been consistently upgraded over time. The most recent version, the Progress MS, boasts improved solar panels, better thrusters, a modernized communications system, and advanced safety features, enhancing its performance and dependability.
Crucial for sustaining human presence in space, particularly at the International Space Station, Progress spacecraft are key in delivering indispensable supplies and equipment, ensuring the continuous operation and livability of space stations.
Table of Contents
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Progress 86 Docking
What is the Roscosmos Progress 86 spacecraft and its purpose?
The Roscosmos Progress 86 spacecraft is an uncrewed cargo ship designed to deliver supplies to space stations. Launched from Kazakhstan, it successfully docked with the International Space Station (ISS) on December 3, 2023, carrying nearly three tons of essential items, including food, fuel, and other supplies for the Expedition 70 crew.
When did the Progress 86 spacecraft dock with the ISS?
The Progress 86 spacecraft docked with the International Space Station’s Poisk module at 6:18 a.m. EST on December 3, 2023. It was launched on a Soyuz rocket from the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan.
What cargo did the Progress 86 spacecraft deliver to the ISS?
The Progress 86 spacecraft delivered almost three tons of cargo to the International Space Station. This cargo included food, fuel, and various supplies essential for the sustenance and operations of the Expedition 70 crew aboard the ISS.
How does the Progress spacecraft contribute to space missions?
The Progress spacecraft series, developed by Roscosmos, are pivotal in supporting continuous human presence in space. They are designed to deliver crucial supplies and equipment to space stations like the ISS, ensuring the operation and habitation of these stations.
What are the technical features of the Progress spacecraft?
Progress spacecraft, based on the Soyuz design but modified for cargo transportation, typically have a pressurized area for scientific equipment, food, and other supplies, along with an unpressurized section for fuel and water. The latest Progress MS variant features improvements like enhanced solar panels, improved thrusters, a modernized communication system, and upgraded safety features.
More about Progress 86 Docking
- International Space Station Updates
- Roscosmos Official Website
- NASA’s Coverage of ISS Expeditions
- History and Evolution of Progress Spacecraft
- Overview of Soyuz Rocket Launches
- Space Mission News and Analysis
5 comments
wow, this is huge news! the progress 86 docking with the ISS, that’s some serious space logistics right there. Good job Roscosmos and all the scientists involved!
I remember reading about the older progress models, its amazing how they’ve evolved over the years. the latest MS variant sounds super advanced with all those upgrades.
Is it just me or does the ISS seem like the busiest place in orbit? Six spacecraft docked at once, that’s like a space traffic jam lol. But seriously, great job to all the teams coordinating this.
Interesting read, but I wish there was more on the technical details of the spacecraft. Like, what kind of scientific equipment are they sending up there? Curious minds want to know!
gotta love these space missions, always pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. kudos to the team for a smooth docking, space exploration is no joke!