All articles tagged with #resupply
NASA and Sierra Space have revised the Dream Chaser contract, shifting its focus from resupplying the ISS to a free-flight demonstration in late 2026, with no guaranteed missions to the station before its deorbit in 2030, due to delays and changing priorities.
SpaceX successfully launched its 6th Dragon mission to the International Space Station, with the Cargo Dragon now en route to the outpost. This was the final Dragon flight of 2023, consisting of both crewed and resupply missions. Once docked, the crew will unload supplies and experiments and fill the Dragon with finished experiments and unnecessary items for return to Earth. The Falcon 9 booster made a successful landing back at LZ-1. SpaceX remains the only American launch provider for the ISS, with more Cargo Dragon flights scheduled in the coming years.
The Gerald R. Ford carrier strike group has been ordered to the eastern Mediterranean by Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin to support Israel in the wake of recent attacks by Hamas. While the move is seen as a "show of force," experts highlight the practical benefits it brings, including resupplying Israel, collecting intelligence, providing long-range protection, and deterring other players from escalating the conflict. The carrier strike group could offer ballistic missile defense against Iranian missiles, but not against attacks from Gaza or Lebanon. Additionally, the group could assist in resupplying Israel with precision-guided munitions and interceptors for the Iron Dome missile defense system. The move raises questions about the Pentagon's defense strategy and budgeting, as it extends support to both Ukraine and Israel simultaneously.