Watch SpaceX Dragon cargo capsule head for home today after historic ISS-boosting mission
Space.com
by Mike Wall February 26, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
SpaceX's Dragon cargo capsule is set to undock from the International Space Station (ISS) today, marking the end of its historic CRS-33 mission. This mission not only delivered over 5,000 pounds of supplies but also achieved a milestone by performing six reboosts to maintain the ISS's altitude, a task traditionally handled by Russia's Progress spacecraft. The successful demonstration of this capability highlights SpaceX's growing role in critical ISS operations, which could become even more vital if Russia reduces its involvement.
The Dragon capsule arrived at the ISS in August 2025, carrying scientific experiments and essential materials. Among these were samples for the Euro Material Aging study, examining material degradation in space, and Thailand's Liquid Crystals experiment, which explored microgravity effects on electronic films. These studies aim to enhance spacecraft construction and improve optical devices, showcasing the capsule's contribution to advancing space technology.
The mission's significance extends beyond cargo delivery. By mastering reboosts, Dragon has proven its ability to support ISS sustainability, a capability that could be crucial in the future if other partners reduce their contributions. This underscores the importance
Verticals
spacescience
Originally published on Space.com on 2/26/2026