Russia’s Soyuz-2.1a Carrier Rocket Launches Progress MS-30 Cargo Spacecraft to Orbit
Mission Overview
Russia’s Soyuz-2.1a carrier rocket has successfully launched the Progress MS-30 cargo spacecraft to orbit, according to a live broadcast by Russia’s state-run space corporation Roscosmos. The spacecraft is expected to reach the International Space Station (ISS) in approximately 50 hours, with docking scheduled for 2:04 am Moscow time on Sunday (11:04 pm Saturday GMT).
Launch Details
The carrier rocket blasted off from the Baikonur Space Centre in Kazakhstan at 12:24 am Moscow time on Friday (9:24 pm Thursday GMT). This marks the first launch of the Progress space freighter and the first launch from Baikonur in 2025.
Cargo Details
The Progress MS-30 spacecraft is carrying 2,599 kilograms of various cargo to the ISS, including:
- 1,179 kg of equipment, stowage for scientific experiments, clothing, food, medical and hygienic sets for the crew
- 950 kg of refueling propellant
- 420 kg of potable water for cosmonauts
- 50 kg of nitrogen to replenish the ISS atmosphere
- New Orlan-ISS No. 6 spacesuit for cosmonauts’ spacewalks under the Russian programme
- Stowage for conducting the Aseptic, Biodegradation, Virtual, Cascade, Lasma, Mirage, Neuroimmunity, and Photobioreactor experiments aboard the station
Conclusion
The successful launch of the Progress MS-30 spacecraft marks a significant milestone in Russia’s space programme, demonstrating the country’s capabilities in space exploration and its commitment to supporting the ISS programme. The cargo spacecraft will play a crucial role in sustaining the ISS, providing essential supplies and equipment for the crew.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the Progress MS-30 spacecraft?
A: The Progress MS-30 is a Russian cargo spacecraft designed to carry supplies and equipment to the International Space Station.
Q: What is the Soyuz-2.1a carrier rocket?
A: The Soyuz-2.1a is a Russian carrier rocket used to launch spacecraft into orbit.
Q: What is the purpose of the Progress MS-30 spacecraft?
A: The Progress MS-30 spacecraft is designed to deliver essential supplies and equipment to the International Space Station, supporting the daily operations of the crew.
Q: When is the docking scheduled?
A: The docking is scheduled for 2:04 am Moscow time on Sunday (11:04 pm Saturday GMT).