The Progress 86 cargo spacecraft embarked on its journey to the International Space Station from the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan at 4:25 a.m. EST on December 1, according to a report from NASA TV.
The spacecraft, part of the Roscosmos fleet, successfully launched towards the ISS, bearing close to three tons of essential supplies. It is scheduled to dock with the station on December 3, after the successful deployment of its solar arrays and navigational antennas.
The unmanned Progress 86, operated by Roscosmos, is currently orbiting and en route to the International Space Station (ISS). The launch occurred at 4:25 a.m. EST on December 1 (2:25 p.m. Baikonur time) from the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan.
Upon reaching a preliminary orbit, the cargo ship unfolded its solar arrays and navigational antennas, as part of its journey to rendezvous with the ISS and the Expedition 70 crew members onboard.
The docking procedure with the ISS’s Poisk module is slated for Sunday, December 3, at 6:14 a.m. EST. NASA TV will broadcast live coverage of the docking, starting at 5:30 a.m.
The mission will deliver almost three tons of food, fuel, and other necessary supplies to the ISS crew.
The image shows the ISS Progress 84 cargo craft, also from Roscosmos, attached to the International Space Station’s Poisk module. Credit goes to NASA.
Progress Cargo Spacecraft
Developed initially by the Soviet Union and now managed by Russia, the Progress cargo spacecraft is an automated freighter designed to deliver supplies to the International Space Station (ISS). It transports essential items like food, fuel, and equipment and can also carry waste away from the ISS. Launched using Soyuz rockets, the Progress spacecraft has been vital for ISS operations since the 1970s.
Roscosmos
Roscosmos, officially the Russian Federal Space Agency, is the agency in charge of Russia’s space science program and broader aerospace research. Formed after the Soviet Union’s dissolution, Roscosmos manages all Russian space endeavors, encompassing satellite launches, both manned and unmanned space missions, and the advancement of new space technologies. It is a significant player in global space collaborations, particularly with the International Space Station.
The International Space Station
The International Space Station (ISS) represents a global collaborative effort involving five space agencies: NASA (United States), Roscosmos (Russia), JAXA (Japan), ESA (Europe), and CSA (Canada). Orbiting the Earth, the ISS functions as a microgravity and space environment research laboratory. Scientific research in astrobiology, astronomy, meteorology, physics, among other disciplines, is conducted there. The ISS, continuously inhabited since November 2000, symbolizes international unity in space exploration.
Table of Contents
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Progress 86 Launch
What is the Progress 86 spacecraft and its purpose?
The Progress 86 spacecraft is an unmanned cargo craft developed by Russia, used to deliver essential supplies such as food, fuel, and equipment to the International Space Station (ISS). It also plays a role in removing waste from the ISS.
When did the Progress 86 spacecraft launch and from where?
The Progress 86 spacecraft launched at 4:25 a.m. EST on December 1 from the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan.
What are the key features of the Progress 86 mission?
After reaching a preliminary orbit, the Progress 86 deployed its solar arrays and navigational antennas, aiming to dock with the ISS on December 3. It carries nearly three tons of supplies for the ISS crew.
Who operates the Progress cargo spacecraft?
The Progress cargo spacecraft are operated by Roscosmos, the Russian Federal Space Agency, and are a crucial part of sustaining ISS operations.
What is the role of the International Space Station (ISS)?
The ISS serves as a microgravity and space environment research laboratory, conducting scientific research in various fields like astrobiology, astronomy, and physics. It’s a joint project involving space agencies from the USA, Russia, Japan, Europe, and Canada.
More about Progress 86 Launch
- NASA TV: Progress 86 Launch
- Roscosmos Official Website
- International Space Station Overview
- Baikonur Cosmodrome Launch Schedule
- Soyuz Rockets Information
5 comments
Surprised at how old the Progress design is, yet still so effective. Shows some tech just lasts, unlike my phone battery lol. Good job Roscosmos!
I always get excited seeing these launches, something magical bout humans reaching for the stars, you know? great article btw
that’s a lot of supplies! Almost 3 tons? the ISS must be like a floating supermarket by now haha. Kudos to the team behind this
So, Roscosmos is still sending these missions? thought with all the tension they’d stop. Good to see space exploration is still on track
wow, this is huge for the ISS, can’t beleive how much stuff they can send up there in one go. really cool to see the progress (no pun intended lol)