SpaceX CRS-35 to Deliver Retina and Heart Tissue Experiments to ISS
NASA's 35th SpaceX cargo mission carries over 6,300 pounds to the ISS, including artificial retina, heart tissue and brain organoid experiments.
The story in focus
NASA and SpaceX target no earlier than Oct. 13 for the 35th Commercial Resupply Mission, carrying more than 6,300 pounds of supplies and science to the International Space Station, where Dragon will dock autonomously before returning about a month later.
- Dragon will launch on Falcon 9 from Space Launch Complex 40 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station.
- The mission carries more than 6,300 pounds of supplies and experiments.
- Dragon will dock autonomously to the space-facing port of the Harmony module and stay about a month.
Mission profile
NASA and SpaceX are targeting no earlier than Tuesday, Oct. 13 for the launch of the 35th Commercial Resupply Mission. A SpaceX Dragon spacecraft will lift off aboard a Falcon 9 rocket from Space Launch Complex 40 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida, loaded with more than 6,300 pounds of supplies, equipment and scientific investigations.
After reaching the orbital complex, Dragon will dock autonomously to the space-facing port of the station's Harmony module. NASA astronauts Anil Menon and Joshua Kutryk, the latter with the Canadian Space Agency, will monitor the arrival. NASA plans to stream launch and docking coverage. The spacecraft will remain docked for about a month before splashing down in the Pacific Ocean.
Experiments aboard
LambdaVision-1 tests manufacturing artificial eye retinas in microgravity, building them one thin layer at a time. NASA says reduced settling in microgravity may create more uniform, stable layers, potentially improving implant performance for retinal diseases.
Stellar Spheroids studies how microgravity affects 3D human heart tissue models, assessing whether it improves formation of advanced vascular networks. ELF-Unconventional Glass 2 examines glass formation in microgravity using non-traditional elements, with solid samples returned for analysis. MINDS studies brain organoids, combining cells from multiple people into organoid villages to better represent patient diversity and examine inflammation linked to neurodegenerative diseases.
Cargo and return
The launch includes the final pair of International Space Station Roll-Out Solar Arrays, completing augmentation of the station's power system, plus a collapsible contingency urinal supporting Artemis III and Canadarm2 joint flight support equipment.
When Dragon returns in mid-November, it will bring back the failed Canadarm2 joint for analysis and refurbishment, a spacesuit, a fluid- and pressure-control pump assembly from the urine processor, and a water processor filtration unit.
What will Dragon return to Earth in mid-November?
It will bring back the failed Canadarm2 joint for analysis and refurbishment, a spacesuit for ground refurbishment, a urine processor pump assembly and a water processor filtration unit.
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