SpaceX's Dragon cargo spacecraft is scheduled to dock with the International Space Station on October 15 following a two-day pursuit through orbit. The mission, designated CRS-35, will deliver more than 6,000 pounds of cargo to the orbiting laboratory.
The Dragon capsule will rendezvous with the ISS after launching from Earth and conducting a series of orbital maneuvers to match the station's trajectory and velocity. Live coverage of the docking event is available for viewers interested in watching the spacecraft's approach and connection to the station.
Cargo Dragon missions represent a critical supply line for the ISS, transporting equipment, experiments, food, and other essential materials to support the crew and research operations aboard the orbital outpost. SpaceX operates these resupply missions under contract with NASA as part of the Commercial Resupply Services program.
The rendezvous process involves precise navigation and timing to safely bring the cargo spacecraft alongside the station, where robotic arms will capture and secure it to a berthing port. Once docked, astronauts aboard the ISS will unload the delivered supplies and load the Dragon with return cargo for the journey back to Earth.
The CRS-35 mission continues SpaceX's regular cadence of delivering resources to maintain ISS operations and support the scientific research conducted aboard the station.