SpaceX launched its CRS-33 mission to the International Space Station from Cape Canaveral on Sunday.
The mission marked the Dragon spacecraft’s 50th visit to the ISS since its debut in May 2012.
After stage separation, the Falcon 9 first stage landed on the droneship A Shortfall of Gravitas in the Atlantic.
SpaceX officials confirmed Dragon will autonomously dock with the ISS on Monday after a 28-hour journey.
Cargo and Science on Board
The CRS-33 mission carries 5,000 lbs (2268 kg) of food, equipment, and experiments for the ISS crew.
Officials stated this mission extends beyond a simple resupply effort.
Astronauts will conduct around 50 experiments designed to advance human space exploration.
Heidi Parris, ISS associate program scientist, explained research targeting bone loss in astronauts.
Her team will test whether blocking a protein linked to bone deterioration could reduce space-related bone loss.
Future Roles for Dragon
Sunday’s launch represented the booster’s seventh flight and the Dragon spacecraft’s third CRS mission.
In September, NASA will use Dragon to boost the ISS altitude, according to operations manager Bill Spetch.
He noted the station’s altitude decreases over time due to the thin atmosphere.
NASA contracted SpaceX to provide this reboost capability for future stability of the ISS.
Officials expect the Dragon spacecraft to return to Earth no earlier than December.
