NASA has scrubbed a mission scheduled for launch due to weather conditions, now targeting Sunday for the next opportunity. The mission will carry scientific equipment to the International Space Station on a Northrop Grumman Cygnus spacecraft launched by a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket. The launch will be live streamed by NASA and Florida Today, with coverage starting at 11:10 a.m. on various platforms including NASA+, YouTube, and the agency’s website.
The Cygnus spacecraft is carrying nearly 8,200 pounds of supplies and materials for scientific experiments, including tests for water recovery technology, blood and immune stem cell production in microgravity, and studies on the effects of spaceflight on liver tissue and microorganism DNA. It will also provide resources for a STEM demonstration for students on centripetal force.
Once at the space station, Cygnus will stay for about six months before burning up in the Earth’s atmosphere. It is equipped to reboost the station’s orbit if necessary. The launch will feature astronauts capturing Cygnus with the station’s robotic arm and installing it for delivery of supplies and equipment.
Overall, this resupply mission is crucial for maintaining operations and conducting research aboard the International Space Station, continuing NASA’s efforts in advancing scientific knowledge and technology in space.
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