Launched from Kazakhstan, the Roscosmos Progress 86 spacecraft docked with the International Space Station (ISS) on December 3, 2023, successfully delivering almost three tons of supplies for the Expedition 70 crew.

On December 3, 2023, at 6:18 a.m. EST, an unmanned Roscosmos Progress 86 spacecraft touched down at the Poisk module of the International Space Station. aboard Friday, December 1, at 4:25 a.m. EST (2:25 p.m. Baikonur time), the spacecraft took out from the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan aboard a Soyuz rocket.

Almost three tons of supplies, fuel, and food are being sent by Progress to the International Space Station for the Expedition 70 crew.
December 3, 2023, International Space Station configuration. The SpaceX Dragon cargo spacecraft, the SpaceX Dragon Endurance crew spacecraft, the Soyuz MS-24 crew ship, Northrop Grumman’s Cygnus space freighter, and the Progress 85 and 86 resupply ships are among the six spacecraft stationed at the space station. NASA is credited.

An essential part of Russia’s space program are the unmanned cargo spacecraft known as Roscosmos Progress. Since their introduction in the 1970s, these spacecraft—which were intended for supply missions to space stations—have undergone multiple modifications. These spacecraft’s technological features stand out for their dependability and efficiency in space logistics.

The Soyuz spacecraft architecture serves as the foundation for Progress spacecraft, which are altered to carry cargo. They usually have an unpressurized part for fuel and water and a pressurized cargo space for food, supplies, and scientific equipment. Although it varies by model, the overall load capacity usually ranges from 2,500 to 3,000 kilos.

Progress spacecraft have undergone a number of improvements throughout time. The Progress MS variation, the newest in the series, has better safety features, upgraded solar panels, improved thrusters, and a modernized communication system. These upgrades raise the spacecraft’s dependability and performance.

The International orbit Station in particular has benefited greatly from the constant human presence in orbit made possible by Progress spacecraft. They are vital to the upkeep of space station operations and habitation because they transport necessary supplies and equipment.