A Bold Launch Into Space!

In a thrilling display of engineering, a Russian Soyuz rocket successfully lifted off from the renowned Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan today, September 11, at 11:54 a.m. EDT (3:54 p.m. GMT). Its mission? To deliver a robotic Progress freighter, packed with crucial supplies, to the International Space Station (ISS)!

What’s Inside the Progress 93?

The Progress 93 cargo ship is on a vital mission, carrying a whopping 2.8 tons of essential items including food, propellant, and other necessities for the astronauts aboard the ISS who are currently on the Expedition 73 mission. This vital delivery ensures that the crew can continue their important work in microgravity.

A Smooth Journey to Orbit!

The journey began without a hitch as the Soyuz rocket shed its side boosters just 1 minute and 58 seconds into the flight, showcasing the precision of the launch. After a sturdy burn of the primary booster lasting nearly three minutes, the rocket triumphantly achieved orbital insertion, setting the stage for the upcoming docking.

Docking Scheduled for September 13!

Mark your calendars! Progress 93 is slated to dock with the ISS's Zvezda service module on Saturday, September 13, at 1:27 p.m. EDT (5:27 p.m. GMT). NASA will be broadcasting this exciting rendezvous live, starting at 12:30 p.m. EDT, so space enthusiasts won't want to miss it!

The Freight’s Short Stay and Future Plans!

Once it arrives, Progress 93 will dock at the ISS for approximately six months. After serving its purpose, the freighter will depart, taking with it astronauts' waste, and undertake a fiery re-entry into Earth’s atmosphere along with it.

More Space Excitement Ahead!

This launch is just the beginning! A second cargo mission is on the horizon: Northrup Grumman’s Cygnus vehicle is ready to take off atop a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket on Sunday, September 14, at 6:11 p.m. EDT. Stay tuned for that launch as well!