SpaceX launched the CRS-33 mission to the International Space Station from Cape Canaveral on Sunday.
The Dragon spacecraft visited the ISS for the 50th time since its first resupply in May 2012.
After stage separation, the Falcon 9 first stage landed on the A Shortfall of Gravitas droneship in the Atlantic.
SpaceX officials confirmed Dragon will autonomously dock with the ISS on Monday after a 28-hour flight.
The CRS-33 mission will deliver 5,000 lbs (2268 kg) of food, supplies, and experiments to astronauts aboard.
Research and Scientific Goals of CRS-33
SpaceX announced the mission extends far beyond a standard resupply effort.
Astronauts will conduct 50 scientific studies critical for advancing future human space exploration.
Researchers will test whether blocking a specific protein can reduce bone loss in astronauts during missions.
Heidi Parris, ISS Program associate scientist, explained the study’s importance for long-term space health.
The mission marks the third flight for this Dragon spacecraft and the seventh for the booster.
Future Role of Dragon and Return Plans
In September, NASA will use the Dragon spacecraft to boost the space station’s altitude.
Bill Spetch, ISS Program Operations Integration Manager, explained that atmospheric drag slowly lowers the ISS orbit.
NASA contracted SpaceX to provide reboost capability for maintaining the station’s operational altitude.
SpaceX confirmed Dragon will remain docked at the ISS and return to Earth no earlier than December.
This milestone underscores Dragon’s evolving role in resupply, scientific research, and orbital maintenance of the station.
