SpaceX Dragon Launches Critical Science and Power Upgrades to ISS
NASA
- SpaceX successfully launched its 35th commercial resupply mission to the International Space Station (ISS) on October 13, 2026.
- The mission is carrying over 6,300 pounds of research hardware, cargo, and final solar array sets.
- The Dragon spacecraft is scheduled to dock with the station on October 15, 2026.
ISS Infrastructure Updates
- The shipment includes the final pair of International Space Station Roll-Out Solar Arrays (iROSA).
- These arrays will complete the station's power augmentation to support ongoing research and eventual deorbit operations.
- Astronauts are slated to perform spacewalks later this fall to install the new hardware.
Scientific Research Aboard
- Artificial Retinas: Hardware to manufacture retinal tissue in microgravity to help restore vision on Earth.
- Heart Tissue Models: 3D models intended to improve large-scale drug testing capabilities for future space missions.
- Biomedical Research: Includes brain organoids to study neurodegenerative conditions like Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and multiple sclerosis.
- Material Science: Experiments exploring the formation of new types of glass under microgravity conditions.
Mission Logistics
- The Dragon capsule will remain at the station until mid-November.
- It will return to Earth with critical research samples and cargo, with an expected splashdown off the California coast.